Born to Angelina and Martin Reijnders, Tijjani was named in honor of the former Nigerian winger, Tijjani Babangida, who spent part of his early career playing in the Netherlands. For the Reijnders family, football was more than just a game; it was a cherished tradition. This passion was fueled by Martin Reijnders, the head of the family, who introduced Tijjani and his brother to the excitement of football from a young age. Martin spent countless hours teaching them the fundamentals of the game.
To further motivate Tijjani, his father made a bet with him: for every shot on target, Tijjani would earn a small sum of money. Tijjani quickly became proficient, scoring so many goals that his father had to call off the bet because it was costing too much!
Our Tijjani Reijnders’s Biography tells you Facts about his Early Life, Childhood Story, Family Background, Parents – Martins Reijnders (Father), Angelina Reijnders (Mother), Siblings – Syane Reijnders (Sister), and Eliano Reijnders (brother), Wife (Marina Gourgis), and Grandparents.
This article about Tijjani also details his Family Origin, Religion, Education, Ethnicity, Zodiac, and Nationality. We’ll will also tell you details about the midfielder’s Net Worth, Personality, and Salary Breakdown (up to what he makes every second in Serie A).
Preamble:
Our version of Tijjani Reijnders’ Bio begins by revealing note-worthy events of his boyhood years. Next, we’ll explain his Indonesian heritage and early career highlights. Finally, we’ll tell how the midfielder shuffles through his early years to make a mark in Italy.
We hope to whet your autobiography appetite as you read Tijjani Reijnders’s Biography. To begin, let’s show you this photo gallery that tells the story of his boyhood years and his success in his career. Without a doubt, the young lad has brought glory to his family.
Yes, everyone knows Tijjani as one of the modern midfielders emerging from the Netherlands. Moreover, the Dutchman was among the Eredivisie Team of the Month for September 2022 and that of April 2023.
In the course of writing about Dutch footballers, we noticed a knowledge deficit. Only a few fans have read Tijjani Reijnders’ biography, which is quite interesting. Therefore, we have put together this article for you. Let’s begin.
Tijjani Reijnders’ Childhood Story:
For Biography starters, he uses the nicknames “Golden Delicious Reijnders and the Mosquito.” At the same time, his full name is Tijjani Martinus Jan Reijnders. The centre-back was born on the 29th of July 1998 to his mother, Angelina Reijnders, and his father, Martin Reijnders, in the Netherlands.
The footballer is among the first three children in his parent’s marriage. Before we continue in this bio, let’s show you Tijjani Reijnders’s parents, especially his father, who is the bedrock of his career.
Growing-Up Years:
Tijjani Reijnders, born in Zwolle’s calm and historical city, spent his childhood immersed in the warmth of a close-knit family. Alongside his sister, Syane Reijnders, and brother, Eliano Reijnders. The player’s early years were woven with the strong threads of family bonds and shared experiences.
In the Reijnders household, the days began with the soft chatter of breakfast preparation. The siblings would scramble to the kitchen, greeted by the aroma of fresh bread and the comforting presence of their parents. The bond between Tijjani and Eliano was incredibly profound. They were more than brothers; they were confidants, competitors, and comrades in every childhood adventure.
Seasons changed, and with each one, the Reijnders siblings grew closer. Winters were marked by spirited snowball fights and evenings huddled around the fireplace, sharing stories and dreams. The brothers would be very inseparable if they weren’t on the field and at home.
As Tijjani and Eliano matured, their paths began to diverge, each pursuing their passions and dreams. Yet, the bond formed in those early Zwolle days remained unbreakable. They carried the lessons of their childhood, the memories of shared laughter and tears, and the deep-rooted sense of belonging that only a family can provide.
Tijjani Reijnders’ Early Childhood:
In the Reijnders family, football wasn’t just a game. Thanks to their father, it was a tradition, a passion ignited early in Tijjani and Eliano’s lives. Martin Reijnders, a fervent lover of the sport, introduced the boys to the thrill of the game. Not merely as onlookers but as active participants, igniting a flame that would define their path.
Tijjani and Eliano’s journey into football began in the sprawling fields of Zwolle. Where their father would spend countless hours teaching them the fundamentals of the game. Under his guidance, they learned to master the ball, move with grace and purpose, and understand the sport’s deep strategy. He was teaching them to play and embedding a deep-seated love for the game that would grow with them.
Their sister, while she admired the dedication of her brothers and father, found her passions elsewhere. Syane Reijnders was more into the line of dancing. This divergence in interests only strengthened the family bond, as each member pursued their path with the support and love of the others. The Reijnders household was a place of encouragement, where each child was nurtured to follow their dreams, football or otherwise.
Tijjani Reijnders and his brother Eliano’s early careers were profoundly shaped by those early mornings and late afternoons spent on the field. Tijjani Reijnder’s father’s coaching went beyond tactics and techniques. And in return, the boy’s practice usually breaks all the vases in the house.
Tijjani Reijnders’ Father’s bet:
In order to motivate them further, Tijjani Reijnders’ father made a bet with his two sons. For every shot on target they made, he would pay them 500 bucks. After four matches, however, Martins had to recount the bet because they trained hard.
Even the neighbour’s windows are not spared; thus, the boys’ skills and passion did not go unnoticed. They joined local clubs as they progressed, gradually moving up through the ranks. The foundation laid in those early days with their father prepared them for the competitive world of football. They understood the value of hard work, the importance of staying grounded, and the unyielding spirit required to succeed.
Tijjani Reijnders Family Background:
Martin Reijnders is known for his agility and prowess on the football field. His career spanned the Netherlands, Finland, and the United States. Yet, beyond the roaring stadiums and the exhilarating matches, Martin’s life was deeply rooted in his role as a father and husband.
Together with his wife, Angelina Reijnders, they created a nurturing home for their three children. Martin and his wife’s story is one of teamwork and mutual support. While the footballer travelled and trained, honing his skills and competing in matches, she was the pillar of the household.
Tijjani Reijnder’s mother, Angelina, with her own set of skills and interests, enriched the children’s lives with cultural and educational activities. She encouraged them to pursue their passions, as Martin did with football, leading by example and instilling a sense of curiosity and ambition. The Reijnders household was a blend of excitement and stability, where the children were encouraged to dream big and work hard.
So, Tijjani Reijnder’s parents put their hands together to care for their children. So this isn’t the story of a grass to grace but that of a son following in his father’s footsteps. Let’s get to see how determined the first son of Martins was in his career.
Tijjani Reijnder Family Origin:
The midfielder was born in Zwolle in the Netherlands. And so it upholds Tijjani Reijnders’s Dutch Nationality. However, his mother (Angelina Reijnders) is from Indonesia, specifically the Moluccan descent.
Zwolle, Tijjani Reijnder’s hometown, is a treasure trove of tourist attractions. Landmarks such as the Sassenpoort and the Grote Kerk or St. Michael’s Church are prominent features of the city. The city centre is a delightful mix of old buildings, boutique shops, and canals, all reflecting Zwolle’s deep historical roots.
Ethnicity:
Tijjani Reijnders’s ethnicity is Dutch-Moluccan. He is Dutch by birth, having been born in Zwolle, Netherlands. And he inherits Moluccan ethnicity from his mother, Angelina Reijnders, who is of Moluccan descent from Indonesia. This combination makes his ethnic background a blend of Dutch and Moluccan.
Tijjani Reijnder Education:
As the family’s first son, the midfielder follows in his dad’s footsteps. However, with a former footballer as his father, he was sure to oversee his career altogether. Hence, Martin didn’t take his child to the regular formal school.
Tijjani Reijnder’s mother was very helpful to her son during his education. When the academy bus came very early in the morning, no matter the time, Angelina Reijnders had readied sandwiches and juice for them. All their needs were provided for both by his father and his mom.
Tijjani Reijnder Biography – Football Story:
The Indonesian descent began his early career when he was five. The Golden Delicious Reijnders started in 2003 from WVF Zwolle. At nine years old, he joined the youth ranks of FC Zwolle, now known as PEC Zwolle, and remained there until he was 13.
In 2011, he transitioned to FC Twente’s youth academy, climbing up to their U17 squad before parting ways in 2015. After a brief stint with CSV ’28 Zwolle for one season, he returned to PEC Zwolle, contributing to their U19 squad and making a single appearance for the senior team.
The mosquito was moving at a ridiculously fast pace in his football career. According to Tijjani Reijnders’s father, Martin, the young player was versatile and multifunctional. Whatever position given to the lad, he would use it to his advantage and the disadvantage of the club.
Although he was small-looking on the pitch and playing with boys far older than him, the Dutch boy was not frightened. And that’s because he had a secret weapon- his father. With Martin’s early training and techniques, the former footballer had shared with him, anything was possible.
Tijjani Reijnder Bio – Road to Fame Story:
The Dutch newbie moved to AZ Alkmaar in 2018. Reijnders spent most of his time from 2018 to 2021 with Jong AZ, AZ Alkmaar’s reserve team, and briefly played on loan at RKC Waalwijk in 2020, appearing in eight games. During his time with Jong AZ, he tallied 19 goals and 13 assists over 92 games, a performance that led to his promotion to the main squad.
The 2022-23 season marked a significant turning point for him, as he made 34 appearances and contributed seven goals and three assists across various tournaments. Notably, he played a focal role in the UEFA Europa Conference League, helping AZ Alkmaar reach the semifinals. With victories over teams including Lazio, before they were eliminated by the tournament’s eventual champions, West Ham.
Did you know Teun Koopmeiners (Defensive Midfielder) and Steven Berghuis (Right Winger) once had a career at AZ Alkmaar? Reijnders identifies as a contemporary midfielder, embodying the versatility of a box-to-box player who can adapt to more defensive roles. He is known for his attacking prowess and creativity, skillfully dribbling and generating scoring opportunities.
Despite his stature, he is agile and robust, though he acknowledges that his defensive skills may need further refinement. And this came in a shocking package. Please keep reading to see his improvement.
Road to Fame Story:
On the 19th of July, 2023, Reijnders made a significant move to AC Milan. The tactical midfielder was committing to a five-year term until June 2028. He made his competitive debut for the Rossoneri on the 21st of August, starting in a Serie A fixture against Bologna.
The Dutchman made his arrival with players like Christian Pulisic (Right Winger), Samuel Chukwueze (Right Winger), Yunus Musah (Central Midfield), and Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Central Midfield). The mosquito chose Milan over the Xavi Hernández’s deal to go to Barcelona.
During the time he came into AC Milan, Tiemoué Bakayoko (Defensive Midfield) went to Chelsea, Charles De Ketelaere (Attacking Midfield) left for Atalanta BC, Divock Origi (Centre-Forward) departed on loan to Nottm Forest, Zlatan Ibrahimović (Centre-Forward) retired. Also, Brahim DÃaz (Attacking Midfield) got to Real Madrid, and Sergiño Dest (Right-Back) returned to Barcelona.
When Tijjani got his offer from Milan, guess who the first person he called was. It was his father. However, the first son of the Reijnders family didn’t tell him directly; instead, he chose to prank him. But Martins didn’t believe he didn’t get the deal. Instead, he said his voice was a dead giveaway because he was excited.
The Dutchman also got to represent his country. As a player eligible to represent the Netherlands and Indonesia, he had a choice, but he chose the former. The Golden delicious Reijnders got his call-up for the 2023 UEFA Nations League Finals. He played alongside other Dutch sons like Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool centre-back), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan Right Midfield), Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig right-winger), and Cody Gakpo (Liverpool centre-forward).
At the time of writing Tijjani Reijnders’ biography, Milan’s midfield dynamo was among the Eredivisie Team of the Month in April 2023. He holds the honour with Orkun Kökcü (central midfielder), Santiago Giménez (Feyenoord centre forward), and Luuk de Jong (PSV Eindhoven centre forward). The rest is history, they said.
Who is Tijjani Reijnder Dating?
Marina Gourgis hails from Eindhoven, and she is the wife of Dutch footballer Tijjani Reijnders. Far from resting on her boyfriend’s laurels, she is into the entrepreneurial world by launching her clothing venture, Marina Gourgis Clothes. Under the name Marina Gourgis Clothes, her Instagram page sells pieces from her wardrobe and establishes a brand presence.
Reijnders girl experimented with content creation on YouTube. Her foray into the platform was brief and characterized by personal vlogs and makeup tutorials. Despite the potential, her YouTube channel didn’t take off as expected, leading her to discontinue her efforts. However, she left a small footprint in her attempt in the digital content space.
The couple’s love for exploration is evident in the myriad of photos capturing their moments in stunning locations worldwide, from the streets of Paris to the landscapes of Tanzania and beyond. These posts reflect a life filled with adventure, culture, and the shared experiences of a couple enjoying life’s journey together.
Tijjani Reijnders and his girlfriend have been madly in love since the beginning of 2018. They decided to take things further when they got into 2023 as a couple.
Tijjani Reijnders Child:
With the couple’s beautiful ceremony on the 21st of December, the wife shared a photo with a baby bump. The caption says she is practising how to stroll with her child when they arrive in the world. We are no doubt very sure that the midfielder can’t wait to be a father.
We can’t help but wonder if they would follow in the family’s footsteps in their career. If it’s a girl, she would probably want to be an entrepreneur like her mother, whereas the boy would be a sports fan.
Personal Life:
Off the pitch, Dutchman Tijjani Reijnders leads a vibrant personal life. Marked by extensive travel with his wife, exploring diverse cultures and creating memories in various corners of the world. The Moluccan descent enjoys spending quality time with his friends when he’s not journeying to new destinations.
Engaging in various activities allows him to relax, unwind, and maintain close connections outside the rigorous demands of his professional career. Whether traversing the globe or hanging out with the boys, Tijjani’s off-field life is as rich and fulfilling as his time on the field.
And let’s not forget about Tijjani Reijnder’s family- his father, Martin, his mom, and his sister are also the ones he hangs around with often. The Leo zodiac player has a steadfast personality with loyalty, ambition and confidence. Golden delicious Reijnders shares the Leo sign with players like Alan Shearer, Thierry Henry, Robert Lewandowski and Mario Balotelli.
Lifestyle:
The absence of cars or houses on Tijjani Reijnders’ Instagram might indicate a more private, modest, or perhaps focused lifestyle. By not showcasing material wealth, Reijnders might emphasise other aspects of his life, such as his football career, personal relationships, experiences, or hobbies.
This choice can reflect a desire to keep some aspects of his life personal or an intention to project an image not defined by wealth or possessions. It suggests a person who values privacy and experiences or is cautious about the image they project to the public.
Well, the Dutch footballer isn’t the only one with this mindset. Players like N’Golo Kanté, Andrés Iniesta, and Juan Mata, like Reijnders, might prefer to keep the focus on their professional achievements rather than on material success.
Tijjani Reijnders Family Life:
The skilled midfielder, Tijjani Reijnders, comes from a close-knit family deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the Netherlands. This background has undoubtedly played a crucial role in shaping his worldview and values. Now, let’s explore the members of his family in more detail.
About Tijjani Reijnders’ Father:
Martin Reijnders, also known as Martin Reynders, started his football career at PEC Zwolle. He moved from the under-19 team to the main squad in 1990 and played until 1998. That year, he went to the United States to play for the Nashville Metros in the A-League. In November 1998, Reijnders returned to Europe and joined FC Jokerit in Finland’s top league, Veikkausliiga.
Tijjani Reijnders’ father then moved to another Finnish team, FC Haka, in 1999 and to FC Den Bosch in the Netherlands in 2000. He left professional football after playing for SC Veendam between 2001 and 2002. Later, he played a few games for PEC Zwolle and was an assistant manager from 2006 to 2008.
When his two sons were of age, Martin started planting the roots of football in them. He would organise matches and various training techniques to improve their prowess. Even though Tijjani and his brother Elijah were constantly crashing a flower vase or window, he didn’t stop them.
Training them wasn’t enough. As a keen manager, the Dutchman noticed a fault with their shots on target. What did Tijjani Reijnders’ dad do to help correct that flaw? he placed a bet of 500 bucks for every shot that went through. The result? The boys made significant efforts, and Martin had to recant his words.
To show how much of a loving father he is to his son, when his first child got his Ac Milan contract, guess who he called first? His dad, Martin. And even though he played a prank and said he didn’t get the deal, his dad knew he was bluffing. It shows the great confidence the former footballer had in his son.
About Tijjani Reijnders’ Mother:
Angelina, a woman of Moluccan descent, epitomizes the role of a dedicated football mother. With her husband and two sons deeply involved in the sport, she stands as an unwavering support for her family. She passionately supports Tijjani, who plays for AZ, and Eliano at Jong FC Utrecht, dedicating her heart and soul to their athletic and personal growth.
Tijjani Reijnder’s mother is hands-on in her approach, actively participating in their daily routines and ensuring they balance their rigorous training schedules and personal lives. Her first son recounts when she navigates the challenges of managing to prepare meals for them no matter the time.
Apart from her sons, she is a loving mother to her daughter Syane (Tijjani Reijnder’s sister). As her last and only girl in the family, Angelina made sure she didn’t miss out on her growth. When she expressed the need to dance and made a career out of it, her mom gave her back.
In every aspect, Angelina embodies the spirit of a football mother. Her dedication is in the visible support at their games and the countless unseen moments of guidance and sacrifice. She provides a foundation of stability and care that allows Tijjani and Eliano to confidently pursue their dreams, knowing they have a robust support system backing them every step.
About Tijjani Reijnders Brother:
Eliano Reijnders, the younger brother of the midfielder, has shared a lifetime of memories. They were bonding over their love for football and growing up in a close-knit family. From their earliest days, the two boys were more than siblings; they were best friends, partners in crime, and each other’s biggest supporters.
Their childhood was filled with endless hours of playing football, whether in their backyard or on local fields in their hometown. These early years were foundational, not only in developing their skills but also in strengthening their bond. As they grew older and pursued football careers, the brothers continued to support each other.
Tijjani’s journey took him to AZ while Eliano found his place at PEC Zwolle. Despite the physical distance between family members and the demands of everyone’s professional lives, they remained each other’s confidant and cheerleader. They shared the thrill of each other’s successes and provided comfort during challenging times.
The memories they’ve made extend beyond the pitch. The two sons of the Reijnders family have enjoyed holidays and navigated life’s ups and downs together. As they continue to make their mark in professional football, the memories Tijjani and Eliano have created will remain a source of strength and inspiration.
About Tijjani Reijnders Sister:
Syane Reijnders is the only girl among the three children in her parent’s marital union. In addition, she is the last child of the home. Her mother and father doted on her with absolute abandonment.
Tijjani Reijnder’s sister was a breath of fresh air after two boys whose football skills broke all the house vases. Syane was calmer and a wonderful, lovely child. One would think that she would follow suit with a football father and two older brothers in the sport.
However, Syane chose her path in dancing. It was a beautiful break out of the sports running in the family. Her parents supported her nonetheless. It went a long way in showing that they didn’t force any of their children into their career choices.
Meanwhile, though on a different path, their sister remained one of their most fervent supporters. She was there at their matches, cheering them on, celebrating their victories, and comforting them in their defeats. The Reijnders siblings, each with their unique journey, remained tightly knit, their paths diverging but always connected at the heart.
About Tijjani Reijnders Grandparents:
Golden delicious Reijnders Moluccan grandfather, in particular, is exceptionally enthusiastic. He actively shares photos of his grandbabies on his Facebook page. It keeps up with all the latest news about their games and delves into everything our clubs are involved with.
Unfortunately, due to the economic andd social restrictions brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, Tijjani Reijnders family has been unable to attend the games in person, something they’ve always done. The footballers recall that the stands that once echoed with their cheers are now quiet. And they, like many others, are relegated to watching us play on television.
Despite the distance, their support has remained strong. Tijjani Reijnder’s mother’s parents tune in to every game, cheering us from afar, and we often share calls post-match to talk through the game’s events. We miss seeing their familiar faces in the crowd, sharing those moments of joy and tension, and we eagerly await the day when they can return to the stands.
Untold Facts:
In the concluding part of Tijjani Reijnders’s biography, we eagerly delve into and present more intriguing facets of his life and career. We invite you to join us in discovering the noteworthy aspects of this Dutch midfielder, a key recruit for Milan.
Tijjani Reijnders Salary:
The former AZ Alkmaar player was receiving a paycheck of ten thousand euros each week. However, things took an advantageous turn when he made it to the Serie A league. The midfielder, currently in the 23/24 football season, earns over 40,000 euros per week.
Noah Okafor is in the same salary range as Reijnders. Ismael Bennacer (Defensive Midfield), Theo Hernandez (Left-Back), Fikayo Tomori (Centre-Back), Olivier Giroud ( Centre-Forward), and Mike Maignan (goalkeeper)are among the highest earners in the team.
How did Tijjani Reijnders Get his Name?
The former athlete Martin Reijnders ( Tijjani Reijnder’s father) got his first son’s name in honor of another player- Tijjani Babangida. The Nigerian footballer who played as a winger had the early period of his career in the Netherlands.
Babangida, hailing from Kaduna, Nigeria, embarked on his career journey at the age of 17 in 1991. His exceptional performance at the 1991 All-Africa Games caught the attention of Dutch Eredivisie club Roda JC, prompting him to leave his local club, Niger Tornadoes, and join Roda JC. Initially, he was loaned out to another Dutch team, VVV-Venlo, for the remainder of the season.
No doubt it would be because of great admiration that Martins chose to name his child after the footballer. And in the hopes that Tijjani would perform greatly like his most admired former player. Well, if you believe in fate, it is just working out fine for them.
How Rich is Tijjani Reijnders?
As per reports, an average Indonesian makes 12,100,000 Rupiah each month. Meanwhile, a Netherlands employee earns €2,583 per month. And the AC Milan midfielder’s take-home salary is over 40000€ every week.
An average Indonesian making 12,100,000 Rupiah monthly would need approximately four years and eight months of work at that income level. So, a Netherlands employee earning €2,583 per month would need approximately 15.48 months to earn €40,000. This equals about one year and 3.48 months of work to reach the €40,000 goal.
Tijjani Reijnders Religion:
Studies show that 24.5% of the Dutch population is affiliated with a Christian church. So, as per his nationality, he is a Christian. However, the midfielder hasn’t publicly declared any other religion.
Tijjani Reijnders FIFA:
Tijjani’s sheet on SOFIFA has a great record like Adrien Rabiot. Tijjani’s defence, movement, and power are all showing green scores. And because of this, he has been given a potential of over eighty per cent and a rating of 78.
End Note:
Tijjani Martinus Jan Reijnders was born in the Netherlands on July 29, 1998, to his parents, Angelina Reijnders and Martin Reijnders. He is the first of three children in his family.
Tijjani’s father, Martin Reijnders, played a significant role in shaping his and his brother Eliano’s early love for football. Martin, a football enthusiast, introduced them to the sport as spectators and active participants. The boys learned the fundamentals, strategy, and deep love for the game under their father’s guidance.
Tijjani’s sister, Syane, pursued her passion for dancing, which further enriched the family dynamic. Despite divergent interests, the Reijnders family was a place of support and encouragement for each child’s dreams.
Martin Reijnders, who had a successful football career in the Netherlands, Finland, and the United States, balanced his sports career with his role as a father and husband. Angelina Reijnders, Tijjani’s mother, also played a crucial role in nurturing their children’s passions and encouraging them to pursue their dreams.
Early Career:
Tijjani Reijnders, following in his father’s footsteps, began his football journey at a young age. He joined various youth clubs and gradually climbed the ranks, eventually securing a place in AZ Alkmaar’s main squad. His versatility on the field, agility, and skill earned him recognition.
In July 2023, Tijjani Reijnders made a significant move to Serie A club AC Milan, signing a five-year contract. He quickly became a part of the squad, contributing to their midfield alongside other talented players. He also received a call-up to represent the Netherlands in the 2023 UEFA Nations League Finals, highlighting his promising career.
Lovelife:
Off the field, Tijjani Reijnders shares a loving relationship with his girlfriend, Marina Gourgis. Marina is an entrepreneur and ventured into the clothing business. The couple frequently travels, exploring destinations worldwide and documenting their adventures on social media.
Their relationship reached a significant milestone in December 2023 as they celebrated their wedding. Marina shared photos revealing her baby bump, suggesting they expect a child.
Appreciation:
Thank you for taking the time to explore Tijjani Reijnder’s Biography. Our commitment is to provide you with reliable and unbiased accounts, with a special emphasis on sharing the unique journeys of football players from diverse backgrounds.
If you encounter any inaccuracies or spots in our article concerning this Dutch talent who turned down Barcelona for AC Milan. We encourage you to connect with us via the comments section if you notice anything that doesn’t look right in this rising Dutch superstar.
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