Tijjani Reijnders believes Manchester City are still capable of winning the Premier League title ahead of Saturday’s Manchester derby at Old Trafford.
The City midfielder said belief inside Pep Guardiola’s squad has not wavered despite Arsenal setting the pace at the top of the table. With a crucial away derby against Manchester United next, Reijnders stressed that big matches can quickly reshape the title picture.
“We are pretty confident of catching Arsenal, to be honest,” Reijnders said. “Winning trophies is why we are here. The Premier League is the big one, especially after missing out last season. We are really eager to reach that goal.”
City know victory at Old Trafford on Saturday would not only carry huge significance locally, but would also apply pressure on Arsenal as the season enters a decisive phase. Reijnders believes these moments define champions.
“Games like this are massive,” he said. “If you win them, confidence grows and momentum can change very quickly.”
Since joining City in June 2025, Reijnders has settled into Guardiola’s midfield and taken on a key role. Comparisons with former City star Kevin De Bruyne have followed, but the Dutch international was keen to clarify his own identity.
“That’s a huge compliment, but I’m not the new De Bruyne,” he explained. “I’m an all-round midfielder. I’m a number eight, a box-to-box player. My biggest strength is arriving in scoring positions.”
While his goal return has not yet matched earlier spells in his career, Reijnders remains relaxed about it.
“I’m getting into the right positions,” he said. “If you keep doing that, the goals will come.”
Reijnders also spoke about his decision to join City and the impact of working under Guardiola.
“Pep is one of the best coaches in the world,” he said. “I wanted to become a more complete midfielder. Leaving Milan was difficult, but certain trains only pass once. From a sporting point of view, this was the best choice.”
With City preparing for a high-stakes derby at Old Trafford and chasing down Arsenal, Reijnders’ words reflect a squad that believes the title race is far from decided.
