Who needs a superhero cape when you’ve got Reijnders in midfield? As Rodri gingerly returns from a knee injury, Manchester City’s Club World Cup campaign delivered a silver lining—and no, we’re not talking about another shiny trophy. The emergence of Tijjani Reijnders as a reliable stand-in at the base of midfield might just be Pep Guardiola’s best subplot heading into the season.
Reijnders the Relief Artist
Rodri looked a bit like a Rolls Royce in need of an oil change against Al Hilal—elegant, yes, but clearly sputtering. With Jack Gaughan confirming the Spaniard’s fitness woes, there’s zero reason to slam the accelerator on his recovery. Enter Reijnders: part midfield architect, part Dutch efficiency manual. Signed from AC Milan, he didn’t just fill Rodri’s boots—he polished them, walked around in them, and passed a 94% accuracy test while doing it.
Reijnders in the Number Six Role
At the Club World Cup, Reijnders played as a six and an eight and likely offered to drive the team bus too. But it was his stint as the deepest midfielder where he caught the eye. He threaded passes like a tailor in Milan and carried the ball forward with the poise of a man trying to prove his fantasy football doubters wrong. Not flashy, but effective—think IKEA furniture assembly with fewer Allen wrenches.
Tijjani to the Rescue—No Cape Needed
Let’s be honest. Last season, City without Rodri was like tea without sugar—functional, but deeply unsatisfying. With Reijnders now in town, Pep doesn’t have to panic every time Rodri tweaks a hamstring. The Dutch international gives the champions tactical depth and breathing room—and for Rodri, some much-needed downtime.
So yes, Manchester City fans, Rodri can take his time. Because Reijnders, as unexpected as pineapple on pizza, might just be the secret ingredient no one knew they needed—but won’t be able to live without.
As featured on ManCityNews.com
