Only a Year's Stay: Manchester City Sells Star Midfielder to Saudi Arabia

The 28-year-old midfielder, who also represented his country at this year's World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, still had four years remaining on his contract with the English Premier League side. He arrived at the Etihad Stadium in June 2025 for nearly 55 million euros from AC Milan.

Last week, he trained separately from the squad and missed the FA Community Shield match, where City lost 0-3 to Arsenal. In a total of 47 competitive appearances for the "Citizens," he scored seven goals and won both the FA Cup and the League Cup with the team.

"It has been an incredible honour to play for Manchester City, and I have enjoyed every minute of my time here," Reijnders stated in a club announcement. "Being part of a team that won two such special trophies last season was an unbelievable experience and an achievement I will cherish forever."

The reigning English vice-champions are significantly overhauling their midfield. In addition to Reijnders, Spanish international Rodri has also departed, moving to FC Barcelona. Conversely, reports suggest that Argentine Enzo Fernandez from FC Chelsea could be joining the squad.