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January 17, 2024

After six months in the Saudi Pro League, Jordan Henderson is expected to depart from Al Ettifaq – Saudi Pro League

The former captain of Liverpool has had his contract terminated, and there are rumors that he will soon be joining Ajax.

England midfielder Jordan Henderson is reportedly on the verge of leaving Al Ettifaq after just six months, as he has agreed to terminate his three-year contract with the Saudi Pro League club.

The 33-year-old moved to Ettifaq last summer in a deal worth £12 million, reuniting with former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard, who is the club’s manager. Initially, the transfer seemed promising, and Henderson was expected to significantly impact the Saudi league.

However, his time in Saudi Arabia has yet to unfold as anticipated. After a bright start, Al Ettifaq has struggled considerably, going eight league matches without a victory since late October. 

This disappointing run has left the team stuck in mid-table, raising concerns for the club’s aspirations and Henderson’s personal ambitions. The midfielder reportedly worries that remaining with a struggling side could hinder his chances of being selected for England’s squad for Euro 2024, an opportunity he is keen to pursue.

In addition to his on-field concerns, reports indicate that Henderson and his family, who relocated to Bahrain—just a short distance from the Saudi border—have faced challenges in adjusting to life in the region. This move marked their first significant international relocation, and settling into a new culture and environment can be daunting. The combination of these factors has likely contributed to his decision to seek a change.

Fans and analysts keenly watch Henderson’s next steps as the situation unfolds. Speculation about a move back to Europe is growing, especially with Euro 2024 approaching. His upcoming decisions will be pivotal for his career and potential new clubs.

Initially, Ettifaq was reportedly reluctant to let their high-profile signing go. However, a mutual agreement was reached, and Henderson’s contract was terminated. This mutual understanding and respect between the player and the club reassure fans that Henderson’s departure will not result in conflict. Although he joined Ettifaq for their winter training camp in Abu Dhabi, he returned to the UK to finalize his departure and determine his next move. Multiple sources suggest that Henderson is likely to sign with Dutch club Ajax.

If he joins Ajax, Henderson is expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s resurgence. The Amsterdam club, which finished third in the Eredivisie last season, their worst finish since 2009, and had a disastrous start to this season, is in need of a player of Henderson’s caliber. Interim manager John van ‘t Schip has since turned things around, guiding Ajax up to fifth place, although they trail league leaders PSV Eindhoven by 23 points. Henderson’s potential arrival could be the catalyst for a successful turnaround.

Henderson’s career is a testament to his talent and dedication. He began his journey in the Sunderland youth system, later playing three seasons for his boyhood club, including a loan stint at Coventry City, before moving to Liverpool in 2011. During his 12-year spell at Anfield, he won six major trophies, including the Premier League, the Champions League, two League Cups, an FA Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup. His achievements have not only brought glory to his clubs but also to his country, as he has been a key player for England, earning 81 caps since his debut in 2010 and playing in the squad that reached the final of Euro 2020.

Henderson has also been a critical player for England, earning 81 caps since his debut in 2010 and playing in the squad that reached the final of Euro 2020.

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