Reijnders discusses emotions after renewal, Milan ‘family’ and changes from first season | OneFootball

Tijjani Reijnders has expressed his delight after renewing his contract with AC Milan and he insisted that things will get better on the field.

Since arriving in the 2023 summer transfer window from AZ Alkmaar, there have been few players to perform as consistently as Reijnders. He has even kicked on to become one of the best midfielders in Europe this season, from a goal scoring point of view.

For this reason, there has been a lot of interest in the 26-year-old, from top clubs around Europe. Yet Milan, perhaps sensing this, moved to lock down the midfielder ahead of time with a new contract and a pay rise as part of it.

Yesterday, it was announced that Reijnders had renewed his contract with Milan until 2030. An interview with Milan TV was conducted as part of the extension, and his comments have been translated below.

Tijjani, how do you feel?

“It’s truly a special moment, signing the contract renewal with Milan: I’m very proud to stay even longer at this beautiful club with my family.”

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How has the current season been?

“At the moment on the pitch we are going through a difficult moment. But I still believe that we can do better and I know that it will be much better. If you play for Milan, you want to play to lift trophies.

“We can still win something this season, the second trophy the Coppa Italia. And we must be ready for next season too.”

How close are you to the team?

“My teammates are like my family, because in the last period I have seen them more than my wife or my son. The club itself is like a family, I can say that Milan is my second home.”

What has it been like at Milan so far?

“90 games is a lot. Fortunately I’m fine and I can give 100% in every game. I want to reach as many games as possible for this club. Every time I wear the red and black shirt I feel like I’m at home: it makes me feel very proud.”

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

What are the changes compared to your first season at the club?

“In the first season I had to adapt, because it was a new championship and I had new teammates. This season I feel much freer, this has led to more goals and more convincing performances.

“I feel I have taken an important step. In this club I can play on the highest stage: for me this is the best context to continue to improve as a player.”

Do you have a message for the fans?

“I want to thank the fans because they are always there for us: I feel their support in every game, even in the worst moments. We will definitely do better, now and next season. Forza Milan!”