‘One of my biggest dreams come true’ – Reijnders explains ‘joy and pride’ of playing for Milan | OneFootball

Tijjani Reijnders has spoken about his love for being an AC Milan player, as well as some of his favourite moments at the club and the brilliant season he is having.

Reijnders has been nothing short of sensational for Milan since his arrival from AZ Alkmaar in the summer of 2023, and he has accelerated this season given he has nine goals to his name already.

Not only that, but widespread recent reports have stated that Reijnders is on the verge of extending his contract. The new agreement for Reijnders will run until 2029 with a substantial salary adjustment that will go from the current €1.7m to €3.5m net per season, plus bonuses.

It is a fitting reward for the Dutchman who will more than double what he is currently getting, though it is not currently clear when it will be announced. What it will hopefully do is ward off interest from clubs like Real Madrid.

Reijnders gave an interview to Rivista Undici and Cronache di Spogliatoio and he spoke about a number of topics, from his excellent form to what it means to wear the red and black shirt.

You are the top scorer this season with nine goals…

“Last year I also had several chances, but I lacked composure in front of goal. Now the goals are coming, I hope to continue like this until the end of the season. It’s a very positive moment for me, but I try not to listen to what is said on the outside, I think about staying focused on what I have to do.”

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How did you end up at Milan, and how does it feel to play for them?

“I remember telling my father: this is the club I want. The history of Milan also played a role in my decision, it was one of the first things I thought about.

“A lot of champions have passed through here: van Basten, Gullit, Rijkaard…players with legendary status. For me it’s extraordinary to have the chance to play for the same club as them.

“It’s one of my biggest dreams come true: this club is one of the greatest teams in the world. Being here fills me with joy and pride. And what the club gives me is beautiful, it gives me so much warmth. It’s a feeling that makes me go to Milanello every day with a big smile.”

What have been your favourite moments?

“The match against Real Madrid was the perfect night. We were anxiously awaiting that match. It was important because we had to win. It was a magical night: we showed our strength, it helped us build our confidence.

Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images

“I hope to relive nights like that. I also include the derby won against Inter. Those are moments that, just thinking about them, fill me with joy.”

What do you think of Serie A as a league?

“It’s always difficult at the beginning. Luckily I had a lot of trust from the coach and my teammates last year, which helped me adapt more quickly. In Italy I learned that a lot of teams play man to man, that it’s a really competitive league, where every game is difficult.

“If you’re not focused you get punished. And there’s a lot of attention in preparing the games, much more than I was used to in Holland.”