Al Qadsiah have officially completed the signing of Netherlands international Tijjani Reijnders from Manchester City, with the midfielder brought in to strengthen the squad for the new season.
The Saudi Pro League club announced the deal on social media, publishing a presentation video in which Reijnders appears at the end and says: “I am a Dutch artist, I am Qadsawi.”
The transfer fee has been reported to be worth about 61m euros.
Al Qadsiah had reached an agreement with Manchester City to complete the move several days ago, but the Saudi club waited until Wednesday to formally confirm Reijnders’ arrival.
The signing is a major addition to a midfield that will be required to compete on several fronts. Al Qadsiah will take part in Asia’s elite club competition for the first time in their history this season, while they are also aiming to challenge for the Roshn Saudi League title.
The club have strengthened their ambitions after pushing established contenders for places in the top four during each of the past two seasons. Reijnders’ arrival is intended to provide further quality and experience as Al Qadsiah seek to build on that progress.
The Netherlands midfielder’s spell at Manchester City lasted only one season. He joined the club from AC Milan last summer and made 50 appearances in all competitions before moving on to Saudi Arabia.
Reijnders could make his Al Qadsiah debut against Al-Ittihad on Friday, when the sides meet in the second round of the Roshn Saudi League. Whether he features in that match will be decided by manager Brendan Rodgers.
The move brings a swift end to Reijnders’ time at Manchester City, where he had arrived after establishing himself at AC Milan. His immediate challenge will be to adapt to a new league and help Al Qadsiah balance their domestic ambitions with their historic first campaign in Asian competition.
Al Qadsiah’s announcement was accompanied by a video built around the club’s colours and identity, with Reijnders’ “Dutch artist” line reflecting the creative qualities the club hope he can bring to their midfield. His arrival gives Rodgers another high-profile option as the team prepare for a demanding season.
