Netherlands midfielder Tijjani Reijnders has ended his short spell at Manchester City after completing a £52m transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah.
The 28-year-old departs City just one year after arriving from AC Milan for £46.5m. Despite featuring regularly during his only season in England, Reijnders struggled to establish himself as a major influence in the City midfield.
He made 50 appearances across all competitions and scored seven goals. His time at the club still brought silverware, with City winning both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup during Pep Guardiola’s final season as manager.
Reijnders also represented the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup. He started each of his country’s three group matches but remained on the bench when the Dutch side were eliminated by Morocco in the last 32.
Announcing his departure, Reijnders thanked City and their supporters for the welcome he and his family received.
“I have been incredibly privileged to play for Manchester City, and I have relished every minute of my time here,” said Reijnders.
“From the very moment I arrived, everyone at the club – players, coaches and staff – made me feel so welcome and a part of the Manchester City family.
“I would also like to say a special thank you to the City fans who were so warm and supportive both to me and my family.”
His exit comes following a change of management at City. New boss Enzo Maresca did not include Reijnders in the squad for Sunday’s Community Shield, where City suffered a 3-0 defeat against Arsenal.
Reijnders has reportedly agreed a five-year contract with Al-Qadsiah. The Saudi club are managed by former Liverpool and Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers.
His departure is also part of a significant reshaping of City’s midfield this summer. Rodri has joined Barcelona in a £65m transfer, while Bernardo Silva moved to Real Madrid on a free transfer after his City contract expired.
Further changes could follow. Spain midfielder Nico Gonzalez has been linked with Newcastle, while City are in advanced negotiations with Lille over Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi.
City are also continuing to pursue Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as Maresca looks to rebuild his options following a summer of major departures.
