New Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders confirmed that he rejected an offer from Barcelona after deciding to join the Rossoneri.
The 24-year-old Dutchman switched AZ Alkmaar for the Milanese club last week, moving in a deal worth around €20m total. He signed a five-year contract with the club, adding a key reinforcement to Stefano Pioli’s squad.
Milan have not rested since selling Sandro Tonali to Newcastle United, picking up six players this month including Reijnders. Villarreal’s Samuel Chukwueze is expected to be the seventh.
Speaking on page six of today’s Gazzetta dello Sport, Reijnders first commented on how it feels to be part of the Milan squad.
“I’ve been impressed, from day one. I immediately understood that I was at a big club, different from the size of AZ Alkmaar that I was used to.”
He touched on the most striking aspect of the Rossoneri.
“The fans. Seeing how they support us is very cool. And as a child I always saw Milan on TV, alone or with my dad, I always knew that Milan were a great club.”
The Dutchman discussed his Italian language skills.
“Um, it’s still early. They’re teaching me a few words here: ‘how are you’, ‘good morning’, simple things.
“The next step is to find a home in Milan because I still haven’t figured out where I’m going to stay. We’ll do it when we return from the tour.”
Finally, Reijnders confirmed that he rejected Barcelona in order to complete the move to Milan.
“Yes, but I had made my choice. I had spoken to Moncada and Pioli… and at that point I had already made up my mind, including with my family. I had already decided that I would play for Milan.”
Reijnders attracted the attention of Milan after shining with AZ Alkmaar last season, scoring seven goals and providing 12 assists in 54 total appearances.
Milan are lucky to have this commitment from a player, I hope , for the sake of the opponents that he adapts hard so he won’t destroy everyone straight away.