'My parents liked his first name' - AC Milan star reveals he was named after Super Eagles legend Babangida
Published: March 24, 2024Tijjani Reijnders, the talented midfielder currently plying his trade with AC Milan, has unveiled the intriguing origin of his first name, shedding light on a unique connection to Nigeria legend Tijani Babangida.
Reijnders disclosed that he owes his name to the admiration his parents had for Tijani Babangida's playing style during the latter's stint at Ajax in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Babangida, who donned the Ajax jersey from 1996 to 2003 before departing for China, left an indelible mark with his dynamic performances.
During his tenure at Ajax, the Nigerian winger showcased exceptional speed, directness, and trickery on the pitch, earning admiration from fans worldwide, including Reijnders' parents.
Hailing from Zwolle, Reijnders shared his personal anecdote in a video posted on social media, where he elaborated on the inspiration behind his name.
He expressed how his parents were captivated by Babangida's playing style, particularly his speed and flair, which prompted them to name their son after the esteemed Nigerian footballer.
"There is a football player from Ajax His name is Tijani Babangida and my parents liked his first name and that is, " Reijnders said in a viral video on X.
Reijnders, who made the transition to AC Milan following a standout season with AZ Alkmaar, has been making waves in Serie A since joining the Italian giants in July 2023.
The composed and intelligent midfielder has quickly endeared himself to fans with his technical prowess and astute game reading.
Having signed a lucrative five-year contract with AC Milan, Reijnders has wasted no time in leaving his mark on the pitch.
He made his competitive debut against Bologna, showcasing his versatility and composure in midfield, and notched his maiden goal against Leece at the Stadio Via del Mare on November 21.
Adeyemi Adewale
Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com
- 'I respected England' - Iwobi explains why he chose Super Eagles over Three Lions at senior level
- Confirmed: Chelsea youth product Dubem Eze released by Norwich City
- 'We beat Ghana 6-1' - Manu Garba highlights the pedigree of most successful U17 team in the world
- Everton ready to offer Nigeria's best defensive forward the chance to stay in the Premier League
- England squads announcement: Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham starlets eligible for Nigeria selected
- Man Utd join Chelsea in keeping an eye on situation of Super Eagles star ahead of possible summer move
- Finidi sweats over fitness of 2023 AFCON star Onyeka before Super Eagles squad announcement
- Potential Zirkzee replacement: Bologna linked with move for 2023 Super Eagles invitee
- U17 AFCON qualifier Nigeria 1 Niger 0: Rapha Adams header secures three points for Golden Eaglets
- Isaac Success: 2013 U17 AFCON top scorer suffers injury in Italy ahead of Finidi's squad announcement
- Football Betting
- African Players
- Australia/ Asia
- Belgian Championship
- Bundesliga
- Danish Football
- English Premier League
- Nigeria National Teams
- Nigeria Premier League
- Norwegian Football
- Polish Football
- Russian Championship
- Serie A
- Spanish Liga
- Swedish Championship
- Transfer
- Turkish Championship
- Ukrainian Football
- Uncategorized
- Women's Football