Arsenal’s Summer Ambitions Meet Hincapie’s Rising Star Weapons store have reliably illustrated driven squad-building beneath Mikel Arteta, focusing on youthful, flexible gifts balanced to raise the team's play presently and within the future. Piero Hincapie—a 23-year-old Ecuadorian defender known for his aggression, technical ability, and adaptability—perfectly aligns with this strategy. The bargain: a season-long advance from Bayer Leverkusen, including an alternative to purchase for a add up to potential taken a toll of £52 million (£45 million/$61 million), additionally a 10% sell-on clause for Leverkusen in case Weapons store trigger the purchase. For Arsenal, this structure delivers squad depth without immediate financial strain, while Leverkusen secure long-term value from one of their top assets. Hincapie’s Profile: From South America to Bundesliga Standout Early Rise: Hincapie risen from Ecuador's Independiente del Valle, inspiring with his development and constancy so...
The transfer market is buzzing with excitement as Manchester City edges closer to securing the signature of AC Milan’s midfield maestro, Tijjani Reijnders. The 25-year-old Dutch international has been one of the standout performers in Serie A, and his potential arrival at the Etihad could be a game-changer for Pep Guardiola’s side.
Given that Kalvin Phillips hasn't established himself and Kevin De Bruyne is getting older, City's pursuit of Reijnders makes perfect sense. However, what precisely does he contribute? What role will he play in Guardiola's scheme of things? What does this signify for the other members of the team?
In this in-depth analysis, we’ll break down:
Let's examine why Tijjani Reijnders might be Manchester City's next big star.
Chapter 1: Who Is Tijjani Reijnders? – Player Profile & Career So Far
Early Career & Rise in the Netherlands
Reijnders, who was born in Zwolle, Netherlands, on July 29, 1998, started his career at PEC Zwolle before relocating to AZ Alkmaar in 2017. Initially a left-winger, he was converted into a central midfielder, where his technical ability and vision flourished.
Breakthrough at AZ Alkmaar (2020-2023)
Under manager Pascal Jansen, Reijnders became a key playmaker for AZ, helping them secure Europa Conference League football and earning a reputation as one of the Eredivisie’s best midfielders.
2022-23 Season:
- 8 goals & 5 assists in all competitions
- 91% pass accuracy
- 2.3 key passes per game
Move to AC Milan & Immediate Impact (2023-Present)
AC Milan signed him for €20 million in 2023, and he quickly adapted to Serie A, becoming a regular starter under Stefano Pioli.
2023-24 Stats:
- 4 goals, 6 assists in 35 appearances
- 1.8 dribbles per game (elite for a midfielder)
- Top 10 in Serie A for progressive carries
His skillful dribbling, resilience to the press, and ability to set the pace have earned him comparisons to Frenkie de Jong.
Chapter 2: Why Manchester City Want Reijnders
1. A Natural Replacement for Kevin De Bruyne
At 33, De Bruyne’s injury concerns are growing. Reijnders isn’t an exact replica, but his playmaking, long-range shooting, and creativity make him an ideal successor.
2. Versatility in Midfield
Reijnders can play as:
- Deep-lying playmaker (Rodri’s backup)
- Box-to-box midfielder (Bernardo Silva role)
- Advanced playmaker (De Bruyne’s position)
3. Elite Ball Progression
One of City’s biggest strengths is controlling possession and breaking lines. Reijnders excels at this, averaging 6.5 progressive passes per 90 (similar to Rodri).
4. Guardiola’s Love for Technical Midfielders
Pep has always favored midfielders who are comfortable under pressure, can dribble, and play incisive passes—Reijnders checks all these boxes.
Chapter 3: How Reijnders Fits Into Guardiola’s System
Potential Role #1: The De Bruyne Replacement
If deployed as an attacking midfielder, Reijnders could:
- Play defense-splitting passes (like KDB)
- Take long shots from outside the box
- Link up with Haaland & Foden
Potential Role #2: The Bernardo Silva Role
If used as a box-to-box midfielder, he could:
- Press aggressively (a key part of City’s system)
- Carry the ball forward (similar to Silva & Gündoğan)
- Provide assists from deep
Potential Role #3: Rodri’s Backup/Partner
While not a natural defensive midfielder, Reijnders has the passing range and composure to play as a deep-lying playmaker when Rodri is rested.
Chapter 4: What This Means for Manchester City’s Squad
Who Benefits?
- Erling Haaland – Will get more service from Reijnders’ through balls.
- Phil Foden – Could form a lethal creative duo with Reijnders.
- Rodri – Less burden on him to be the sole playmaker.
Who Could Lose Out?
- Matheus Nunes – Struggled for minutes; could be sold.
- Kalvin Phillips is already unpopular and is probably going to leave.
- Bernardo Silva – If Reijnders takes his role, Silva may push for a move.
Chapter 5: Reijnders vs. Other Midfield Targets
Player Age Club Strengths Price
Tijjani Reijnders 25 AC Milan Dribbling, passing, versatility €40-50m
Bruno Guimarães 26 Newcastle Physicality, tackling, leadership £100m (RC)
Lucas Paquetá 26 West Ham Creativity, flair, work rate £85m
Why Reijnders?
- Cheaper than Guimarães & Paquetá
- More versatile
- Better fit for Guardiola’s style
Chapter 6: What This Signing Means for City’s Title Hopes
Premier League & Champions League Ambitions
Adding Reijnders would:
- Provide much-needed midfield depth
- Ease the creative burden on De Bruyne
- Make City even more dominant in possession
Long-Term Project
Reijnders is entering his prime at the age of 25, and he could be a mainstay for the next five or more years.
Conclusion: A Smart Move by Manchester City
Signing Tijjani Reijnders would be a masterstroke by Pep Guardiola and Txiki Begiristain. He’s technically gifted, tactically flexible, and ready for the Premier League.
While not a "marquee" name like Jude Bellingham, he could be the perfect piece to keep City’s midfield dominance intact for years to come.
Final Verdict: 9/10 Transfer
✅ Fits Guardiola’s system perfectly
✅ Adds creativity & depth
✅ Good value for money
~~~ By Dribble Diaries
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