Jordan Henderson, who was part of an exodus of Premier League stars to Saudi Arabia, joined Al-Ettifaq, managed by Steven Gerrard from Liverpool, last summer. In a turn of events, in the mid-season, he has been willing to opt for an early exit from the Saudi Pro League.
Reportedly, Ajax offered Jordan Henderson an escape route from the Saudi Pro League with aligned interests to sign him. In addition, Serie A side Juventus also sought the Englishman’s services on a loan spell a few days ago, and he is now on the verge of an exit.
Jordan Henderson terminates Al-Etiffaq contract to join Ajax
Jordan Henderson struggled to adapt to the new lifestyle and found the league competition and atmosphere less enjoyable compared to European leagues. Additionally, his family, residing in Oman, faced challenges settling in the Middle East. Therefore, the English midfielder was keen to move away in the January window.
According to The Athletic, the 33-year-old has reached an agreement with Al-Ettifaq to terminate his lucrative two-year contract after discussing his future with club boss Steven Gerrard and sporting director Mark Allen. The termination process is the final phase to facilitate his permanent move back to Europe.
Following the growing interest from Dutch giants Ajax for the former Liverpool captain, the Saudi employers initially rejected the offers, denying Henderson to leave on loan. Now, he sees no obstacle to moving Ajax, having agreed in principle to a two-year deal, and he has left the club’s winter training session.
The Ajax representatives will meet Henderson in England to further discuss the contract and finalize the terms, welcoming the English international to Eredivisie in the upcoming days. Just six months after he arrived in the Saudi Pro League, he is set to pursue a return to Europe.
Jordan Henderson’s performance for Al-Etiffaq
In his brief stint with Al-Ettifaq, Henderson made a promising start to his Gulf endeavor, leading his side as captain to register five wins in their seven initial league fixtures, including a 2-1 win over Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in the SPL league opener. He has made 19 appearances, contributing nine goals so far this season.
The 33-year-old ended his 12-season association with Liverpool, enjoying immense success as he captained the Reds under Jurgen Klopp to lift the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, English Cup, and FA Cup twice. He registered 492 appearances, scoring 33 goals and providing 61 assists during his tenure.
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