Tijjani Reijnders made a good start to life at Manchester City but his situation has taken something of a dive.
He started the first nine Premier League games this season, appearing to be a key player.Sport Witness covered how there was surprise about how quickly he adjusted to life in England, scoring on his debut too.
This promise hasn’t lasted long. The Dutchman has remained on the bench in each of the last four league games. His last Premier League start came against Wolves back in January, featuring for less than 90 minutes since then.
This has led to doubt around his future at Manchester City, encouraging Juventus interest. The Italian media has now addressed this, specifying details about his situation.
City won’t make things easy
Tuttomercatoweb report that signing Reijnders would is a ‘fascinating idea’ for Juve manager Luciano Spalletti. He is different to other midfielders in the Old Lady squad and it is believed he can still be a difference maker at the highest level.
A move will depend on several factors and one is Pep Guardiola’s future. His exit can lead to Reijnders staying beyond this season, with the Spaniard seemingly having lost trust in the midfielder.
Finances will also play a big role in Reijnders’ Manchester City exit.
A ‘high quality offer’ will convince City into a sale but a capital profit will be needed for that.
The Netherlands international weighs €44m on the Citizens’ accounts right now. Juve or any other suitors will have to pay more than that, with Reijnders’ wage demands of €7m not making things easy either.
Our take: Reijnders should be patient
Not every Manchester City signing has worked out immediately over the past few years. There are examples of that across the squad and Reijnders should take hope from that.
His qualities have been obvious from his time at AC Milan and glimpses have been seen in England too.
Manchester City paid a significant amount for him and selling him after just a season won’t make sense. Be it under Guardiola or any other manager, he can become an important player due to his ability to play multiple roles in midfield.
That’s why the ex-AZ star should be patient, at least for now.