Ajax have completed the signing of Jordan Henderson after the former Liverpool captain terminated his contract with Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq.
Henderson left Liverpool after falling out of favour at Anfield ahead of the 2023-24 campaign, agreeing a three-year contract worth a reported £700,000 per week with Al-Ettifaq, who are managed by Reds great Steven Gerrard.
Henderson appeared in 17 league games for Al-Ettifaq but ultimately failed to settle, and he attracted fierce criticism from LGBTQ+ supporter groups in England following his move.
He was booed by some England fans when representing the Three Lions against Australia in October, having suggested his presence in Saudi Arabia was a positive thing for LGBTQ+ rights in the country – where same-sex relationships are outlawed – during an interview with The Athletic.
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Henderson’s stint in the Gulf ultimately lasted less than six months, with Al-Ettifaq agreeing to the mutual termination of his contract so he could join the Eredivisie giants.
Henderson told Al-Ettifaq’s website: “I’d like to thank the club, the fans and all involved for the opportunity and wish them the best for the remainder of the season.
“A lot of hard work is going in which I know will pay off in the future.”
Thank you for everything, Jordan ????❤️#Ettifaq pic.twitter.com/9DYzSz1h1T
— Ettifaq Club (@Ettifaq_EN) January 18, 2024
Henderson joins an Ajax side currently 23 points adrift of Eredivisie leaders PSV. They slumped to the bottom of the table by early November but have since rallied under John van ‘t Schip, winning eight of their 13 games under the former winger.
“We wanted an experienced midfielder with leadership qualities,” Van ‘t Schip told the club’s media channels.
“Partially due to injuries in the team, we were looking for someone who could step in immediately. Jordan Henderson is that type of player.
“His arrival means a huge enhancement for our squad. Both on and off the pitch, a football player of this calibre is important for our many young players.
“He’s an England international and has won the Champions League and many other trophies with Liverpool. I am happy he’s here, and I think it’s very good for our club that he’s here.”
Jordan, welcome to Ajax ❌❌❌ pic.twitter.com/nAZhQACt5E
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) January 18, 2024
