AC Milan midfielder Tijani Reijnders has revealed that he was named after former Super Eagles striker Tijani Babangida despite having no ties to Nigeria.

The Dutch international disclosed that his first name, 'Tijani,' was inspired by the Nigerian football legend who featured for Eredivisie giants Ajax during the peak of his powers.

According to One Football, Reijnders' father, Martin, was a big admirer of Babangida during his time at the Amsterdam Arena, now Johan Cruyff Arena.

Renowned for his pace and technical prowess, Babangida was a huge favorite among the Ajax faithful between 1996 and 2003.

His stint at Ajax saw him win the Eredivisie and KNVB Cup double in the 1997-98 season.

It is not surprising that one of his die-hard fans honoured him by naming his son after him.

Reijnders has been in brilliant form for AC Milan this season, scoring 10 goals in 30 appearances as a midfielder for the Rossoneri.

AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders revealed that he is named after former Super Eagles and Ajax forward Tijani Babangida despite having zero ties to the nation of Nigeria.

His parents just liked the name 😂🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/r78drENUAH

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) January 24, 2025