Rijkaard says Milan’s Reijnders is on track to be ‘one of the best in the world’.
Frank Rijkaard, the former Milan and Ajax player as well as ex-Barcelona coach, believes that Rossoneri midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is “on the right path” to becoming one of the top central midfielders in the world following his decisive performance in Milan’s 3-1 Champions League win over Real Madrid on Tuesday.
Since his move from AZ Alkmaar last summer, Reijnders has established himself as a key figure for Milan, and his match-sealing third goal in the surprise victory over the Champions League holders is arguably his standout moment in a Rossoneri shirt thus far.
Rijkaard is confident that the Netherlands international will only continue to improve and shared his admiration for the various aspects of Reijnders’s playing style.
Rijkaard backs Reijnders to reach world-class level
“I truly hope Reijnders becomes one of the world’s best midfielders, and I firmly believe he’s on the right track,” Rijkaard said in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I really appreciate his playing style. As time passes, he is becoming more and more crucial for Milan,” Rijkaard continued.
“He is versatile in the midfield and is incredibly selfless. He’s constantly running for the team and always gives his best. With his skill set, he excels at creating dangerous opportunities for his teammates and initiating attacking plays.”
Reijnders was signed by Milan for a fee of approximately €20 million in the summer of 2023, though La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that his market value may have already increased significantly since then.
Other reports indicate that the 26-year-old is beginning to draw attention from top clubs, including Tottenham in the Premier League and Real Madrid in La Liga.