Brother sheds light on Reijnders’ move to Milan: “We were very happy” | OneFootball

The brother of Tijjani Reijnders has shed some light on the big step taken to join AC Milan last summer, as well as what it was like to come from a footballing family.

Reijnders was among the names who arrived during the last summer transfer window following the club-record sale of Sandro Tonali to Newcastle United, one that meant the midfield needed rebuilding.

The Dutchman arrived on a long-term deal from AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie, joining Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Yunus Musah as new reinforcements for the department.

On a personal note it has been successful season for the 25-year-old as he has established himself as a pillar of both the Milan side and the Dutch national team, even if it will end without a trophy.

Tijjani is not the only one in his family to play in a European first division. In fact, at PEC Zwolle there is his brother Eliano, a 23-year-old attacking midfielder. He spoke to MilanNews about a number of topics.

Eliano Reijnders, you are a family of footballers. Your father Martin was a professional. Was it a sealed fate?

“Yes, it’s true, as children we always had the ball at our feet. As children we admired Messi a lot and even today I enjoy watching his exploits.”

What is your relationship with Tijjani like?

“Very good relationship. I consider him my best friend and I talk to him every day. His figure is also very important for my career.”

Last summer was a big step for him…

“We were very happy that a big European club wanted my brother. If you look at his career so far, you understand that patience and perseverance are rewarded. I am very proud of him and what you have shown so far has met the expectations I had. You will see that it will continue like this!”

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Do you see yourself in Tijjani’s way of playing?

“We have two different roles, so I would say no. I think Tijjani is really a box-to-box player who can divide the game. That’s how I see him best on the pitch.”

Is there anything that strikes you in his way of playing?

“I always like that he plays with a smile and really enjoys it.”

From the outside, what idea did you have of Milan?

“A great club where many Dutch players have played in recent years. I think they had a good season, even if they dropped a few too many points.”

Will we see you one day too in Italy, in Serie A?

“It would obviously be very nice. Serie A is a great league and I think it’s our dream to be able to play together one day! For now I have to settle for San Siro as a spectator, where I was once for Tijjani.”

The season is coming to an end. end, you have scored three goals each. Do you think you can beat him?

“I don’t know, we certainly didn’t bet and I don’t even think it’s right given that Tijjani has more games in the season.”

Off the field what do you like to do?

“We like to share some games like chess and padel.”