Manchester City’s Tijjani Reijnders Steps Up Amid Goals Drought

Manchester City’s new signing, Tijjani Reijnders, has started to deliver on expectations after a challenging adjustment period. Following his impressive debut where he assisted Erling Haaland and scored a goal himself, the £46.3 million acquisition from AC Milan faced a dry spell of over three months without finding the net.

Reijnders, who had a standout season prior to his move, netted 15 goals in all competitions, including 10 in the Serie A. His performance had raised hopes that he would replicate this scoring ability at Manchester City. However, after that promising debut at Molineux Stadium, he struggled to maintain momentum.

Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, expressed concern about the team’s heavy reliance on Haaland for scoring. Following a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United in November, he emphasized the need for the entire squad to contribute to goal-scoring efforts. “Yes, the chances were clear, but we have to score more goals. Our players have the ability and quality to do it,” Guardiola stated.

In recent matches, it seems his players have taken his words to heart. Phil Foden has been in excellent form, and Reijnders appears to be finding his rhythm. He ended his scoring drought in a thrilling 5-4 victory against Fulham, where he netted a goal, and followed it up with another crucial strike against Nottingham Forest.

His goal at the City Ground showcased his skills as a midfielder. Reijnders found space, made a well-timed run behind the Forest defense, and finished with precision, illustrating the attacking depth City requires to compete for the title.

Since Guardiola’s call for more contributions, Manchester City has won eight of their last nine matches, with only one loss to Bayer Leverkusen. Notably, Haaland did not score in four of those victories, highlighting that City can secure wins even when their star striker is not on the scoresheet.

For Manchester City to have a successful campaign and contend for the title, it is essential that they receive goals from various positions on the pitch. Reijnders is now proving to be an important asset in this effort, as he adapts to the rigors of Premier League football. His recent form suggests he may continue to play a significant role in the team’s pursuit of success.