Tijjani Reijnders has revealed that Zlatan Ibrahimovic asked for him to stay in Milan prior to the Dutchman’s move to Manchester City.
After almost two years with AC Milan, Tijani Reijnders decided to bring his time in Italy to an end and joined Manchester City for around $52 million.
During his time in Italy, the Dutch international made 128 appearances for Milan, scoring 13 goals and contributing with another 15 assists – winning the Supercoppa Italiana.
However, after the Rossoneri finished eighth in the Serie A and were beaten by Feyenoord in the Champions League Ro16 play-offs, Reijnders decided to take the next step in his career.
The Italian side have already targeted some possible replacements this summer, with Milan making Rodrigo De Paul the latest option for around $30m after falling out-of-favor in Madrid.
Massimilano Allegri will be taking charge of the seven-time Champions League winners for the second time, as the veteran returns to Italy after taking a year away from the sport.
The former Juventus coach would have wanted to turn up to Milan and have Reijnders available for next season, as the Dutchman is one of the best midfield prospects in Europe.
Fans and everyone connected to AC Milan were left heartbroken after Reijnders opted to leave Milan for Manchester, especially after the latest admission from the former Az Alkmaar player.
Following his first few appearances for City at the FIFA Club World Cup, where the Cityzens are favorites to win the competition on new betting apps, Reijnders revealed that Zlatan Ibrahimovic asked him to stay in Milan.
Reijnders said: “Do I miss AC Milan? Of course, I had two great seasons at AC Milan, and it will always remain in my heart. I only have positive feelings for AC Milan. I took this step for a sporting reason and now I’m happy at Manchester City.
“What did Ibrahimovic tell me? Ibra was happy for me and my move to Manchester City, but he would have liked me to stay at Milan. Leao? I had no contact with him; he simply congratulated me on my transfer. Now the boys are on holiday, I think they will be recovering to be ready for next season.”
The Swedish soccer icon is now a Senior Advisor at AC Milan following his retirement in 2023 and works on the sporting side, as well as the business aspect.
During his playing career, Ibrahimovic made 163 appearances for Milan, contributing to 128 goals (93G +35A) and winning two Serie A titles and a Supercoppa Italiana.
