Club World Cup: Reijnders make his feelings clear on De Bruyne and Gundogan

Tijjani Reijnders has stated he does not see his role at Manchester City as replacing Kevin De Bruyne. 

The 26-year-old joined from AC Milan in a transfer valued at €55 million (£46.8 million), becoming part of a midfield overhaul following the departure of former club captain De Bruyne.

However, the Dutch midfielder expressed his hope that his goalscoring contributions can propel Pep Guardiola’s team back to winning trophies, starting with the Club World Cup.

Reijnders explained that while he does not aim to be a direct replacement for De Bruyne, he has spent years analysing clips of the Belgian's play.  

The Dutchman also noted Ilkay Gundogan as another player from whom he has learned significantly, appreciating the opportunity to observe his approach up close. 

“I am not here to replace him but I watched a lot of clips of him and how he plays the game,” said Reijnders in Miami.

“I try to adapt that to my game but in my own way. A lot of times I watched Kevin but another player I can learn a lot of things from is Gundogan. It is nice to see him up close and see how he does it.”

Reijnders confirmed the importance of a midfielder contributing goals and assists, noting a conscious effort to improve his composure in front of goal after reflecting on his first season at Milan.

Despite having signed a new five-year contract with Milan earlier in the year, City identified Reijnders as a primary transfer target, intending to utilise him in the No. 8 position, which immediately appealed to the Netherlands midfielder. 

“It was getting near to the end of the season when my father called me to say City were interested in me as the number eight,” continued Reijnders.

“It was almost a no-brainer when City came and for me it was an easy choice in the end. It is important for me to play European football and playing for City is like a dream.

“I am really looking forward to it. Of course, you hear it from a lot of colleagues in the national team about how the Premier League is and I want to experience it.”

Guardiola's men will begin their Club World Cup campaign against Wydad on June 18 before taking on Al Ain on June 23 and Juventus three days later.