Former Manchester City star Tijjani Reijnders has admitted his move to Saudi Arabia was financially motivated.
The midfielder also revealed his plan to no longer work again once he has hung up his boots.
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The Netherlands international called time on his City career last month after just one season at the club.
The 28-year-old completed a lucrative switch to Saudi Pro League club Al Qadsiah following the arrival of new City boss Enzo Maresca.
The Italian was quick to make reinforcements to his midfield with the big-money signings of Elliot Anderson, Ayoub Bouaddi and Enzo Fernandez.
With Reijnders seemingly now down the pecking order and with Saudi Arabia calling, the Dutchman’s choice was a simple one.
Atletico Madrid showed an interest in the star but the two clubs were unable to agree a fee.
Al Qadsiah had no such issue in meeting City’s £60million valuation and quickly tied up the deal.
Having now played six games for his new club, Reijnders opened up on his motives behind the switch and said the idea of staying at City made him unhappy.
“There were other options, but they did not come through or they stalled over the asking price,” Reijnders told Dutch outlet Voetbalzone.
“In the end, I started to think: do I want to stay another season at Man City without being completely happy, or do I choose to take on a new adventure?
“That was when I spoke with Al Qadsiah and with the coach. And after that conversation, I became very excited.”
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Asked if money was a huge factor behind the move, Reijnders was forthcoming in his reply.
A financially-motivated move
“Money definitely plays a part in it. After my football career ends, I don’t want to work again,” he added.
“I didn’t have to after leaving Manchester City anyway, but now I can also help future generations of my family.
“Security was the priority. I won’t lie about it, if my grandchildren can live off this, then why shouldn’t I?”
“When you moved to Saudi Arabia, some people accused you of doing it just to fill your pockets with money.
“When you’re offered that kind of salary, just try saying no,” he said.
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“Everyone can take the moral high ground and say, ‘I would never do that,’ but I’m pretty sure most people would accept it. In fact, most people would probably accept a promotion in their own job.
“We’re talking here about the kind of money that is almost impossible to turn down.”
The midfielder also quashed the idea that his career would fizzle out by opting for the Saudi Pro League over a top five European league.
“I think many people believe that a player’s career ends by moving to Saudi Arabia, but that’s not true,” he said.
Netherlands manager Xavi has called upon Reijnders up for the upcoming international matches, which sees them face Germany, Serbia and Greece in the Nations League.
