Tijjani Reijnders defended his decision to leave Manchester City for the Saudi Pro League, admitting financial security was a major factor behind his move to Al Qadsiah.
The Netherlands midfielder joined the Saudi club in August after just one season at City, signing a long-term deal with Brendan Rodgers’ side.
Speaking to Dutch broadcaster SBS6, Reijnders was candid about the financial benefits on offer and the opportunity to provide for his family beyond his playing career.
“Once my playing career is over, I don’t want to have to work anymore,” he said.
“Of course, I probably wouldn’t have needed to work anymore after my contract at Manchester City either, but this move allows me to secure the future of the next generations of my family.
“By signing this contract, I can make sure even my grandchildren are financially secure, so why wouldn’t I do it? You can always play the moral crusader, but I think everyone would say yes to that.”
Reijnders added that his move was more than just the lucrative contract, pushing back against perceptions of the standard of football in Saudi Arabia.
“I rate the Saudi league, with all those big names, even higher than the Eredivisie. If people want to pass judgment on the football there, they have to see it first,” he said.
The former AC Milan midfielder also acknowledged concerns that moving to Saudi Arabia at the peak of his career could close the door on a future return to European football, but a conversation with Rodgers helped him.
“I think many people have the idea that your career as a top footballer is over when you choose to take such a step. I had that feeling at first too,” he added.
“He [Rodgers] said that I can play here perfectly fine for three or four years and then go back to Europe. There are plenty of examples of that now. That is also my goal.”
