Tijjani Reijnders is a heavily praised figure at AC Milan and today, a fellow Dutchman has commented on his improvement in the past 12 months and how far further he can go.
This season, Reijnders has been exceptional for Milan, but in the past two weeks, he has somehow hit a new level. Not only is he playing with a higher level of confidence, but he is becoming decisive for the Rossoneri, and there is more tangible evidence to support the claims of his brilliance.
Two decisive goals against Club Brugge, the winner against Monza at the weekend, followed by another goal in the Champions League at the Bernabeu. Reijnders is one of the most important players to the Diavolo currently, and the club are looking to reward this with a new contract.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Frank Rijkaard spoke of his importance to Milan, and how far he can still go.
“I hope that Reijnders will become one of the best midfielders in the world, but I sincerely believe that he is already on the right path. I really like the way he plays. As time goes by he is becoming more and more important for Milan.
“In the middle of the field, he can cover all roles and is showing his generosity: he never spares a run for the team and always gives his all. With the quality he has, he is very good at creating dangerous actions for his teammates and sets up the manoeuvre well,” he stated.
“His growth also in terms of goals confirms that Reijnders is a key player for the team. Thanks to his progress, Milan is getting stronger and stronger. The Rossoneri fans hope that another Dutchman like Tijjani will be the soul to take the Diavolo back to the top. Both in Italy and in Europe.”
Can he follow in your footsteps?
“I wish him that. The stronger the team becomes, the more chances he has to live fantastic moments with Milan.”
The former midfielder also commented on the Rossoneri’s victory against Real Madrid, something which he was hopeful of before the game.
“The Milan players, Fonseca and his staff deserve many compliments for the success they have achieved. Winning in Madrid is a feat that has been achieved by few teams in recent years. A success like this will bring awareness of their own means to everyone and help the team to have more confidence in the coming matches. I wish Milan great satisfaction this season.”
That’s exactly what I expect and desire to happen.