Manchester City have once again demonstrated their ambition and financial prowess with the completion of one of the most significant transfers of the 2025 summer window. The Premier League champions have successfully secured the services of Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan in a deal worth £46.3 million (€55 million), marking their fourth major signing of the transfer period and signaling their intent to maintain dominance both domestically and in Europe.
The Transfer Details: A Premium Investment
Manchester City agreed to pay AC Milan £46.3 million (€55 million) for the Netherlands international, who has signed a five-year contract at the Etihad Stadium. This substantial investment reflects the club’s confidence in the 26-year-old midfielder’s ability to make an immediate impact in Pep Guardiola’s system.
The deal represents one of the most expensive midfield acquisitions in Manchester City’s recent history, underlining the premium placed on Reijnders’ unique skill set. The midfielder had the most goals and assists of any midfielder in Serie A last season, making him one of the most sought-after players in European football.
Behind the Scenes: A Carefully Orchestrated Pursuit
Manchester City’s process to sign Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan dates back to the end of last season, according to the player himself, with the Netherlands international viewed as a priority transfer target for Etihad Stadium officials. This strategic approach demonstrates the meticulous planning that has become synonymous with City’s transfer operations under the current management structure.
The protracted nature of the negotiations reflects both AC Milan’s reluctance to part with one of their star performers and Manchester City’s determination to secure their primary target. Sources close to the deal suggest that City’s persistence and willingness to meet Milan’s valuation ultimately proved decisive in completing the transfer.
Player Profile: Understanding the Reijnders Phenomenon
Tijjani Reijnders represents the modern midfielder perfectly suited to Pep Guardiola’s tactical philosophy. The 26-year-old Netherlands international is described as an energetic yet classy operator capable of playing in both attacking and defensive roles, making him an ideal fit for City’s fluid positional play system.
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Standing at 6’1″ with an athletic build, Reijnders possesses the physical attributes necessary to compete in the demanding environment of the Premier League. His technical ability, combined with exceptional work rate and tactical intelligence, made him one of the standout performers in Serie A during his time with AC Milan.
Statistical Excellence at AC Milan
Reijnders’ performances at AC Milan have been nothing short of exceptional. His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch made him indispensable to the Rossoneri’s tactical setup. The Dutch midfielder’s versatility allowed him to operate effectively as a box-to-box midfielder, an attacking midfielder, and occasionally as a defensive midfielder when tactical situations demanded.
His goal-scoring record from midfield positions has been particularly impressive, with a knack for arriving in the penalty area at crucial moments. This attacking instinct, combined with his defensive work rate, makes him a complete midfielder in the modern game.
International Recognition and Experience
Reijnders’ inclusion in the Netherlands national team setup further validates his quality and potential. His international experience has exposed him to high-pressure situations and world-class opposition, preparing him for the challenges that await at Manchester City.
The midfielder’s performances for the Netherlands have been characterized by maturity beyond his years, displaying leadership qualities and tactical awareness that suggest he could become a key figure in City’s midfield for years to come.
Tactical Integration: How Reijnders Fits into Guardiola’s System
Pep Guardiola’s tactical approach at Manchester City has evolved continuously since his arrival, with the manager consistently adapting his system to maximize the potential of available players. Reijnders’ skill set appears tailor-made for Guardiola’s preferred style of play, offering multiple tactical solutions and positional flexibility.
Positional Versatility
One of Reijnders’ most valuable attributes is his ability to operate effectively in multiple midfield positions. This versatility aligns perfectly with Guardiola’s preference for players who can adapt to different tactical scenarios within the same match. Whether deployed as a traditional central midfielder, box-to-box player, or advanced playmaker, Reijnders has demonstrated the technical and tactical intelligence to excel.
His experience playing alongside world-class players at AC Milan has prepared him for the collective responsibility required in City’s possession-based system. The Dutch midfielder’s understanding of space, timing, and movement patterns will likely see him integrate seamlessly into Guardiola’s tactical framework.
Ball Progression and Creativity
Reijnders’ ability to progress the ball through the midfield lines represents a crucial asset for Manchester City’s attacking phases. His combination of short, incisive passing and longer, more adventurous distribution provides Guardiola with another creative outlet from deeper positions.
The midfielder’s technical proficiency on the ball, combined with his vision and decision-making, suggests he could develop into a key figure in City’s build-up play. His ability to maintain possession under pressure while simultaneously looking for progressive passing options aligns perfectly with the demands of Guardiola’s system.
Filling the Creative Void: Addressing Key Departures
Manchester City’s pursuit of Reijnders can be viewed within the context of addressing potential departures and maintaining squad depth. The club faces the daunting task of finding a successor for Kevin De Bruyne and addressing concerns around their aging squad, making young, talented acquisitions like Reijnders essential for long-term success.
The Belgian maestro’s eventual departure would leave a significant creative void in City’s midfield, and Reijnders represents the t
