The editorial team of MilanNews.it interviewed Tijjani Reijnders through journalist Alessandro Schiavone in Manchester. The former Rossoneri midfielder joined Guardiola's City last summer after two outstanding years in Milan.
Tijjani, how was it leaving Milan to join Manchester City?
"It was really hard to leave Milan because I had a great relationship with everyone there. With the fans, teammates, the staff… all of that made my departure emotionally difficult. But…"
Tell us…
"Then Manchester City came knocking, and from a sporting point of view, it was the best decision for me."
Is moving from Milan to Manchester City a step forward only in terms of the Champions League?
"If you look at the past few years of both clubs, I think it’s a step forward in every sense. Just look at the number of trophies they’ve won in recent years. Then there’s a great coach here, and just look at the players the club has. I have a lot of feelings for Milan, but some trains pass only once…"
The club knew you would leave a huge gap, yet they brought in four midfielders: Ardon Jashari, Adrien Rabiot, Samuele Ricci, and Luka Modric to replace you…
"I don’t know if they signed so many midfielders just because I left (Reijnders laughs). They brought in many quality midfielders, and I hope they give their all to bring Milan back to where it deserves: in the Champions League and fighting for trophies."
Reijnders, after a strong start to the season, can Milan already win the Scudetto?
"Of course. Milan has built a great team, and I hope they win Serie A."
