From Aldi Aisles to Premier League Stardom: Tijjani Reijnders’ Inspiring Journey

ZWOLLE, Netherlands — Tijjani Reijnders, now a star midfielder for Manchester City, began his career stacking shelves at an Aldi supermarket in Zwolle. Just eight years ago, the now 27-year-old was working as an aisle filler while dreaming of professional football.

Reijnders, who debuted for City in a Premier League match last month against Wolverhampton Wanderers, has come a long way from his days at the supermarket. Back then, he balanced his job with training at PEC Zwolle, the local team where he grew up. Bas van Wijnen, a friend and former coworker at Aldi, remembers those days. “His job was to stack the shelves and work as a cashier,” Van Wijnen said. “He was always focused on football but wanted to earn some extra money.”

His commitment to balancing work and football reflects his upbringing. Reijnders’ father, Martin, a former professional footballer, encouraged his sons to experience “normal” jobs to stay grounded. Their mother, Angelina, found Tijjani’s Aldi job and urged him to apply. “I told him, ‘Go on, fill it out now,’” she recounted.

Reijnders, along with friends and fellow aspiring footballers, would work together at Aldi, experiencing the realities of employment while nurturing their football dreams. “It was great fun,” said Steyn van Ark, a childhood teammate. “We made some money and learned what it was like to have a proper job.”

His dedication paid off. After true growth spurts and key performances, Reijnders made his first-team debut for PEC Zwolle at age 19. He later moved to AZ, where he gained recognition and eventually signed with AC Milan in 2023. Now, at Manchester City, Reijnders wears the No. 4 shirt, continuing his ascent in professional football.

Reijnders remains close to his roots, often seen celebrating victories with family, including his mother who drove him to the Netherlands national squad headquarters. His childhood friends describe him as grounded and committed, with Van Wijnen stating, “It’s amazing to see how well he has done; he’s still the same down-to-earth guy.”

Now, as he aims for success in the Premier League, Reijnders carries with him both the lessons of his past and the unwavering support of his family and friends from Zwolle.