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Title: Tijjani Reijnders’ Ascension Critical for Netherlands’ Euro 2024 Ambitions
Subheading: Dutch midfielder poised to fill void left by Frenkie de Jong and Teun Koopmeiners, as his mentor Pascal Jansen reflects on his meteoric rise.
Lead:
In a world where footballers are often celebrated for their flair or sheer athleticism, Tijjani Reijnders stands out for his relentless work ethic and dedication to improvement. As the Netherlands gears up for Euro 2024, the 25-year-old midfielder is poised to be the linchpin in the national team’s midfield, a role previously occupied by Frenkie de Jong and Teun Koopmeiners. His rise from relative obscurity to a pivotal player in the Dutch setup is a testament to his character and ability.
Body:
In a candid interview with Sky Sports, Pascal Jansen, who once coached Reijnders at AZ Alkmaar, reminisced about the player’s development. I can remember it like it was yesterday, Jansen said, reflecting on 2022 when Reijnders finished the season strongly with AZ Alkmaar. He smashed everyone in midfield.
The ambition was clear from the outset. He came up to me and said, ‘Coach, I have played 50 per cent of the minutes but I need more,’ Jansen recounted. The coach’s response was to set the bar high for the following season, which Reijnders did not disappoint. Starting every single match of AZ’s 54 matches across all competitions, Reijnders established himself as an integral part of the team.
His performance caught the eye of AC Milan, who signed him last summer. I have seen him grow. He has improved himself so, so much, Jansen said. He made the next step and just continued. That surprised a lot of people but not me because I could see that he was on his way.
Reijnders’ meteoric rise continued this summer as he prepares to direct the Netherlands midfield at Euro 2024. The loss of de Jong and Koopmeiners is a significant blow to the Dutch team, but there is confidence in Reijnders’ ability to step up.
Jansen noted that Reijnders has replaced Koopmeiners before, and now at 25, he is ready to take on the responsibility. He has the ability to play as a 10 but he was not as good there as in midfield, Jansen explained. So he was competing with those guys and he had to wait his turn.
But it was during his final season at AZ that Reijnders truly blossomed, a period Jansen describes as a prime example of a player seizing his chance. Once he went in, he improved himself daily. Just by playing, feeling the confidence from his coach and from the team, he matured, Jansen said.
Reijnders’ productivity has been evident throughout his debut season for Milan, where he ranks among the top 10 players in Serie A for chances created from open play, passes completed in the final third of the pitch, and through-balls.
Jansen also highlighted Reijnders’ positive attitude, noting that the player is always smiling and seems to enjoy every moment of his football journey. When he made the transfer to Milan, I could see the same Tijjani in a different environment, improving himself again, Jansen said. His family have supported him all the time and encouraged him to play to his potential.
Reijnders’ father, Martin, a professional footballer himself, has played a significant role in his son’s career, handling much of his affairs and guiding his decisions. The decision to choose Milan was a strategic move that balanced career considerations with emotional ties.
As Reijnders prepares for the Euro 2024, there are other clubs interested in him, but it is clear that his rise is not just about talent; it’s about his attitude, work ethic, and the guidance he has received along the way.
Conclusion:
Tijjani Reijnders’ journey from a young player at AZ Alkmaar to a key figure in the Dutch national team is a compelling narrative of growth, perseverance, and ambition. As the Netherlands looks to Euro 2024, Reijnders is not just another player; he is a symbol of hope and potential for a nation that has always valued the development of its football talent.
This article would be suitable for publication in a sports section of a major news outlet, given its in-depth analysis and focus on the personal and professional growth of a key football player.
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