Manchester City’s “Exceptional” Star Faces Uncertain Future If Reijnders Signs

For the first time since the 2016/17 season, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has experienced a trophyless campaign. The 2024/25 season marks only the second time in his illustrious managerial career without silverware, signaling a rare stumble in what has been one of football’s most dominant eras. After a historic run including a treble and four consecutive Premier League titles, the absence of trophies this year has prompted deep reflection within the Etihad hierarchy.

This challenging season also appears to coincide with a turning point at City, as club legend Kevin De Bruyne is poised to leave after nine transformative years. De Bruyne’s departure represents not just the loss of a world-class talent but the closing of a defining chapter in City’s recent history. Alongside him, several other first-team regulars may also exit, making this summer’s transfer window potentially one of the most critical in the club’s modern era.

Transfer Market Outlook

City’s recruitment team, led by Director of Football Txiki Begiristain, faces the daunting task of rebuilding while preserving the team’s elite competitive edge. Among the transfer targets, Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz and Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White have been widely discussed. However, it now seems unlikely that Wirtz will join City this summer, as the German international prefers to stay in the Bundesliga, with Bayern Munich being the favored destination.

The standout new name linked with City is AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders. The Dutch midfielder has impressed since arriving in Serie A, and Guardiola reportedly sees him as a key target to revitalize an aging midfield.

Tijjani Reijnders: Milan’s Midfield Dynamo

Reijnders’ rise has been somewhat unconventional. After progressing through AZ Alkmaar’s ranks, the 25-year-old made a €19 million move to AC Milan in July 2023. Despite a mixed season for Milan overall, Reijnders has shone as their most reliable performer, scoring 15 goals and assisting five times across all competitions.

Operating mainly as a central midfielder rather than in an advanced role, his goal contribution is exceptional. His playing style—dynamic, box-to-box, and technically refined—has drawn comparisons to midfield greats like Toni Kroos and İlkay Gündoğan.

Outstanding Stats

Reijnders’ statistics underline his quality:

• Top 3% for non-penalty goals among midfielders (0.29 per 90 minutes)
• Top 3% for progressive carries (3.11 per 90 minutes), reflecting his ability to drive the ball forward
• Top 16% for touches in the attacking penalty area, showcasing his timing and positioning
• Pass completion of 91.4%, aligning perfectly with City’s possession-based style
• Successful pressure rate of 34.2%, key for Guardiola’s high-press system
• Covers 11.8 km per game, showing excellent stamina
• Wins 58.3% of duels, indicating physical readiness for Premier League intensity

These numbers illustrate a midfielder who combines skill, tactical intelligence, and physical resilience — qualities City desperately need to replace the void left by De Bruyne.

Tactical Fit at Manchester City

Guardiola values tactical versatility, and Reijnders’ ability to adapt to multiple midfield roles makes him an attractive option. At Milan, he has played as a deep-lying playmaker, a box-to-box engine, and occasionally in more advanced positions.

Potential roles for Reijnders at City include:

• Number 8 in a 4-3-3: Providing late runs into the box and contributing goals
• Double pivot in a 4-2-3-1: Partnering with Rodri to control possession and support attack
• False nine or advanced midfielder: Exploiting space between lines with intelligent movement and goal instincts

His ability to maintain possession under pressure, his spatial awareness, and technical skills reminiscent of David Silva would complement Guardiola’s style well. At 26, with his prime years ahead, Reijnders represents a long-term solution.

The Future of İlkay Gündoğan

Reijnders’ arrival could signal the end for İlkay Gündoğan, whose second spell at City has failed to match his previous success. At 34, Gündoğan’s output has declined sharply—zero goals in 31 league games, only three big chances created, and falling pressing effectiveness.

With a reported £170,000 weekly wage, his reduced impact makes him a likely candidate for departure, with interest from Saudi Pro League and MLS clubs already reported.

Financial Context and Prospects

City’s ongoing financial scrutiny, with 115 charges pending over alleged breaches, means any new signing must fit within a strict budget. Reports indicate Milan values Reijnders between €60-70 million (£51-60 million), with wages expected around £150,000 per week—feasible given De Bruyne’s exit and other potential departures freeing up salary space.

The club aims to reduce squad age while maintaining quality, a balance Reijnders embodies perfectly.

A New Era at the Etihad

Manchester City stand at a crossroads. With club legends leaving and a rare trophy drought, a new chapter beckons. Reijnders could be the figure to lead this transition—combining technical skill, physicality, and leadership. His style fits Guardiola’s evolving tactics and could help City adapt post-De Bruyne.

He is also attracting interest from Bayern Munich, PSG, Arsenal, and Liverpool, meaning competition for his signature will be fierce.

Reijnders himself remains focused on Milan and the upcoming Euros, but the prospect of a move to the Etihad may soon become a defining moment—for both player and club.