“Why wouldn’t I?” Reijnders backs Saudi Pro League as better than Eredivisie and says move secures his family’s future for generations | OneFootball

Tijjani Reijnders has said the decision to move to Saudi Arabia will benefit 'future generations' of his family and believes the Saudi Pro League is a better standard than the Eredivisie.

Reijnders made the move Al Qadsiah in the summer, signing in a £51m deal after just one season in thePremier League at Manchester City.

At 28, Reijnders decided to move to the Saudi Pro League in the peak seasons of his career, and revealed hisunhappiness with his role at Manchester City persuaded him to seek an exit.

TheNetherlands international admitted he had initial reservations over the Saudi switch, but said he has been impressed by the standard of the league as it continues to attract 'big names'.

He honestly admitted that the opportunity to secure his family's long-term future financially as a factor in deciding to leave Europe for the Middle East.

Reijnders defends £51m Saudi leap, targets Europe return after cashing in

"I think a lot of people have the idea that your career ‌as a top footballer is over when you make a move like this. I initially felt that way too," he said while on international duty with the Netherlands.

"He [Al Qadsiah head coach Brendan Rodgers] said I could have three or four very enjoyable years here and then return to Europe. There are enough examples of that now. That is my goal too.

"With all the big names, I actually rate the Saudi league higher than the Eredivisie (Dutch league). If people want to judge the football there, they should watch it first.

"You can always play the moralist, but I think everyone would say yes to that [the financial package].

"I don't want to have to work anymore after my career. I didn't need to after City either, but now I can also set up future generations of my family well.

"If this choice means my grandchildren can also live comfortably, why wouldn't I do it?"