Reijnders describes leaving Milan for Manchester City as “a step forward” | OneFootball

Tijjani Reijnders has reflected on his decision to leave Milan for Manchester City in the summer, insisting the switch represented a golden opportunity to take “a step forward” in his career.

The Dutch midfielder, who spent two seasons at San Siro before joining Pep Guardiola’s side, admitted that although he still holds affection for Milan, City’s recent dominance and resources made the move impossible to turn down.

WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 16: Tijjani Reijnders of Manchester City celebrates scoring his sides second goal during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester City at Molineux on August 16, 2025 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Reijnders signed for the Premier League giants for a reported figure of around €70 million, seeing the Rossoneri turn a huge profit on a player who arrived for just €20 million in 2023.

Reijnders on ‘step forward’ from Milan to Manchester

Speaking to MilanNews.it, Reijnders said:

“If we look at the last few years of the two clubs I think it’s a step forward from every perspective,” the Dutchman said.

GRONINGEN, NETHERLANDS – JUNE 10: Tijjani Reijnders of Netherlands smiles as he looks on from the bench prior to the FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifier match between Netherlands and Malta at Euroborg Stadion on June 10, 2025 in Groningen, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

“Just look at the number of trophies they’ve lifted in recent years. Then here there’s a great coach and you only have to look at the players the club has.

“I have many feelings for Milan but certain trains only pass once,” he concluded.

Reijnders has been a regular starter for City this season, adapting quickly into Pep Guardiola’s side and offering an extra dimension to the coach’s star-studded midfield.