Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders has stepped forward to defend the quality of football in the Saudi Pro League, insisting that the competition offers players an opportunity to continue improving their careers despite widespread criticism surrounding moves to Saudi Arabia.

Reijnders, who has attracted attention for his decision to pursue a new challenge in Saudi Arabia, believes that the league deserves more respect and should not be judged solely by its financial power. According to the midfielder, players can still develop their abilities, improve their performances and gain valuable experience while competing in the Middle East.

Speaking about his experience, Reijnders made it clear that he remains confident in the standard of football in Saudi Arabia.

“I can 100% keep developing myself in the Saudi Pro League. Watch a game for yourself in the Saudi Pro League!” he stated.

His remarks come amid ongoing debates about whether footballers who leave Europe's top leagues for Saudi Arabia sacrifice their sporting ambitions in exchange for lucrative financial packages.

However, Reijnders appears determined to challenge that perception. He believes that the Saudi Pro League has grown into a competitive football environment where ambitious players can continue working towards their personal and professional goals.

The Dutch international also addressed one of the biggest talking points surrounding footballers moving to Saudi Arabia: money.

While financial rewards are often considered a major attraction for players making such decisions, Reijnders insisted that money was not the only factor behind his move.

“Money was not the only reason I went there. I still want to return to Europe one day,” he explained.

That statement offers an interesting glimpse into his long-term ambitions. Rather than viewing his Saudi Arabian experience as the final chapter of his career, the midfielder appears to regard it as another stage in his football journey.

His desire to return to Europe also suggests that he has not abandoned his ambitions of competing at the highest level of European football in the future.

Reijnders' comments are likely to reignite discussions about the growing influence of Saudi Arabia in world football. With several established stars choosing to play in the region, the league continues to attract attention and challenge traditional perceptions of football outside Europe.

Ultimately, Reijnders wants football fans to judge the Saudi Pro League by what happens on the pitch rather than making assumptions based on players' salaries.

Whether his experience will eventually lead him back to European football remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: he believes his development as a footballer does not have to stop in Saudi Arabia.

Source