Injuries to key players, including Rodri, and the confirmed departure of Kevin De Bruyne have left significant gaps in midfield. With aging stars like Bernardo Silva and Mateo Kovacic also facing uncertain futures, Guardiola is turning to younger, more dynamic options to refresh his side.
Reijnders, who turns 27 in July, brings energy, versatility, and creativity to City's midfield. Known for his box-to-box presence, he notched 10 goals and 4 assists for Milan in Serie A last season, standing out as one of the club's few positives in a disappointing campaign that ended with an eighth-place finish and no European qualification.
Statistically, Reijnders ranked among the top midfielders in Italy for forward passes, through balls, and ball carries. His ability to drive play forward and make intelligent runs into the box makes him an attractive fit for Guardiola's possession-based system.
While comparisons to De Bruyne are inevitable, Reijnders offers a different profile. He may not match De Bruyne's creative output—De Bruyne averaged significantly more assists and chances created—but he brings physicality, work rate, and a powerful long-range shot, giving City a new dimension in midfield.
Reijnders has thrived under multiple systems at Milan and has shown adaptability across roles—from a deep-lying midfielder to a more advanced playmaker. His former AZ Alkmaar coach Pascal Jansen believes he is most effective in central midfield, where he can balance defensive duties with attacking runs.
Italian journalist Daniele Verri noted Reijnders' growth since joining Milan: "He runs a lot, wants to improve, and will fit in well under Guardiola." Known for his upbeat personality, he was popular in the Milan dressing room and is expected to bring both talent and morale to Manchester.
As City undergo a transformation, Reijnders looks set to play a pivotal role in Guardiola's next chapter at the Etihad.
