Reijnders Fires Back at Critics Over Man City's Early Season Expectations

Recently acquired Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reinders has dismissed comparisons with Kevin De Bruyne, stating that he aims to establish his own unique identity with the Cityzens.

Rather than seeking a direct replacement for De Bruyne this transfer window, City has chosen to refresh their midfield with several newcomers. They've secured playmaker Rayan Cherki from Lyon and brought in Reijnders from Milan in a substantial £46.5 million ($62.7 million) transfer.

Both acquisitions have been incorporated into Pep Guardiola's roster for the Club World Cup tournament in the United States, giving City fans an early opportunity to witness their new signings in action.

Reijnders joins the Premier League champions following a standout personal campaign with an underachieving Milan squad. The Dutch international contributed to 20 goals across 54 appearances for the Rossoneri and earned recognition as Serie A's premier midfielder.

While many observers suggest the 26-year-old now faces the challenging task of stepping into the shoes of arguably Man City's greatest player ever, Reijnders has emphasized his intention to forge his own path at the Etihad.

"I'm not here to replace him [De Bruyne]," he explained at City's Club World Cup training facility in Florida (via ESPN).

"I have to play my own game. But I take things from different players and what they can do really well and try to adapt that. With Kevin De Bruyne, [it was] how he was scanning the pitch, the passes he gave."

In reality, Reijnders bears more stylistic similarities to Ilkay Gündoğan than to De Bruyne, with the Dutchman characterizing himself as a "box-to-box midfielder."

"I am a box-to-box midfielder who likes to bring the ball and be part of the construction of the game," Reijnders said. "As well as connecting defence and attack and trying to make assists and goals."

City's latest addition is a versatile performer who seems destined to excel under Pep Guardiola's guidance. The opportunity to work with the Spanish tactician was a decisive factor in Reijnders' choice to leave Milan for Manchester, as he noted: "I am very eager to learn new things here and style of playing and that's what I'm looking forward to."