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Tijjani Reijnders was named after Nigerian football great Tijani Babangida. Now, he’s living his own dream and calling his move to Manchester City a ‘big step’ for him and his family.
Manchester City’s ambitious rebuild continues with the high-profile signing of 26-year-old midfielder Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan for £46.3 million, a move the Dutch star describes as 'a big step' for both himself and his family.
What makes Reijnders’ journey more compelling is his name as he was named after Nigerian football legend Tijani Babangida, a former Super Eagles winger renowned for his skill and flair.
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Now, Reijnders is carving out his own legacy in Europe, stepping into the Premier League spotlight with one of the continent’s most formidable clubs.
Reijnders arrives at Manchester City fresh off an outstanding season in Serie A, where he led all midfielders in both goals and assists and was rewarded as the league’s Midfielder of the Year.
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His dynamic playmaking and goal-scoring ability made him a standout performer at AC Milan, catching the eye of Pep Guardiola as he prepares for the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
His signing is part of a broader squad overhaul by Manchester City, who have also secured the services of Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli, the latter brought in to replace Scott Carson.
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These additions signal the Guardiola’s determination to reclaim his lost Premier League crown and make a strong push for European glory.
Reflecting on his move, Reijnders said, “I’m really happy, my family is happy.” “It’s a big step and we are really excited to be here,” he added.
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His excitement as palpable as he embarks on this new chapter, ready to test himself in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.
With his blend of creativity and scoring ability, Tijjani is hoping to make a big impact at Manchester City, carrying the legacy of his Nigerian namesake while forging his own path in English football.
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