Meet Tijjani Reijnders’ Parents: Angelina Reijnders and Martin Reijnders

Tijjani Reijnders, born on July 29, 1998, in Zwolle, Netherlands, is a Dutch professional footballer whose rise in European football has been shaped by the unwavering support of his parents, Angelina and Martin Reijnders.

He began playing football at the age of five with local side WVF Zwolle before progressing through the youth setups of PEC Zwolle, FC Twente, and later AZ Alkmaar, where he further developed his talent. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in sports, Reijnders was naturally immersed in football from an early age.

Of mixed heritage, Tijjani has Dutch roots through his father and Indonesian descent through his mother. Some reports suggest he practices Islam, although this has not been widely confirmed.

His father, Martin Reijnders, is a former professional footballer who played in the Netherlands, Finland, and the United States, while his mother, Angelina Reijnders, has been a constant source of encouragement.

Tijjani also shares a strong bond with his siblings: his older brother, Eliano Reijnders, currently plays professionally for PEC Zwolle, and his sister, Syane Reijnders, has also been an important part of the family’s close-knit support system.

Angelina Reijnders

Angelina Reijnders, Tijjani’s mother, has been a cornerstone of emotional support and cultural pride in his life. Of Indonesian descent, Angelina brought a rich multicultural perspective to the Reijnders household, fostering an environment where Tijjani and his siblings could embrace their diverse heritage.

Her role as a nurturing mother shines through in Tijjani’s grounded personality and resilience. Angelina’s influence is evident in his ability to adapt to high-pressure environments, such as his move to AC Milan in 2023.

Her emphasis on humility and perseverance has helped Tijjani stay focused amidst the demands of professional football, making her a quiet but powerful force behind his success.

Martin Reijnders

Martin Reijnders, Tijjani’s father, brings a deep connection to football that has profoundly shaped his son’s career.

A former professional footballer who played as a forward in the Dutch leagues during the 1990s, Martin provided Tijjani with early exposure to the sport and invaluable insights into its challenges. His experience allowed him to guide Tijjani and his older brother, Eliano, also a professional footballer, with technical advice and practical wisdom.

Martin’s involvement went beyond coaching, fostering a love for the game in the Reijnders household through backyard kickabouts and local matches. His guidance has been crucial in Tijjani’s development into a versatile midfielder, renowned for his vision and work rate at clubs such as AZ Alkmaar and AC Milan.