Chukwueze's AC Milan teammate ignores Messi, names ex-Barcelona player as childhood idol

AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders recently shared his footballing journey in an interview with Lega Serie A's official channel, revealing the legendary figures who inspired him along the way.

The Dutch midfielder opened up about his footballing idols, citing Ronaldinho as his early inspiration. 

He was captivated by the Brazilian's mesmerising skills and joyful style of play, even if he grew to admire the genius of Lionel Messi as he developed as a player, stating that the Argentine’s exceptional talent and vision continue to motivate him. 

“I started playing football with my father, when I was 5 years old I kicked my first ball in the garden,” said Reijnders via Sempre Milan. “I think this was my first approach to this sport. 

“When I was very young my idol was always Ronaldinho, then I admired the genius of Lionel Messi. Unfortunately, I haven’t met them yet and I would pay to do so in the future.”

Reijnders, who joined the Serie A side from AZ Alkmaar in the summer of 2023, stated that the club’s aim is to win this term’s Scudetto, despite a slow that sees them five points adrift of Napoli in the standings following a 2-1 loss at Fiorentina before the international break. 

Milan return to league action after the hiatus with a home match with fifth-placed Udinese, the club directly ahead of Paulo Fonseco's men in the table.