In a surprise move, English soccer star Jordan Henderson has left Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq club and returned to Europe to join Dutch giants Ajax, effective immediately. The midfielder’s departure from the Saudi Pro League (SPL) club was announced on Thursday, just six months after he joined the team in a highly publicized move.
Henderson’s decision to leave Al-Ettifaq comes amidst a backlash from the LGBTQ community and human rights groups over his decision to play in a country where same-sex relationships are criminalized. The 33-year-old midfielder had faced criticism for his move to Saudi Arabia, with many accusing him of ignoring the country’s human rights record and perpetuating discrimination against the LGBTQ community.
In a statement released on Thursday, Henderson expressed his gratitude to Al-Ettifaq and the Saudi Arabian government for the opportunity to play in the SPL. However, he also acknowledged that the move had been a difficult one for him and his family, and that they had decided to return to Europe for personal reasons.
“I have had an incredible experience playing for Al-Ettifaq, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have played in the Saudi Pro League,” Henderson said in a statement. “However, my family and I have decided that it is time for us to return to Europe, and we are excited to start this new chapter in our lives.”
Henderson’s move to Ajax is a significant coup for the Dutch club, which has been struggling to regain its former glory in recent years. The midfielder is one of the most experienced and respected players in the Premier League, and his arrival is expected to give Ajax a major boost in their bid to win the Eredivisie title and other domestic and international competitions.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jordan Henderson to Ajax,” said Ajax CEO Edwin van der Sar in a statement. “He is a world-class player with a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. We believe that he will be a valuable addition to our squad, and we are confident that he will help us achieve our goals in the coming seasons.”
Henderson’s departure from Al-Ettifaq is the latest in a series of high-profile player transfers between Europe and Saudi Arabia, which has been fueled by the Saudi government’s efforts to promote the country as a global sports hub. However, the move has also highlighted the challenges and controversies.
Why is Henderson leaving Saudi League?
Jordan Henderson is leaving Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq club and returning to Europe due to personal reasons, the English midfielder announced on Thursday.
Henderson, who joined Al-Ettifaq in July 2022, cited the need to be closer to his family and friends as the reason for his departure. The 33-year-old midfielder has been playing in Saudi Arabia for six months, but he has not been able to spend as much time with his loved ones as he would have liked.
“I have had an incredible experience playing for Al-Ettifaq, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have played in the Saudi Pro League,” Henderson said in a statement. “However, my family and I have decided that it is time for me to return to Europe to be closer to our loved ones. I will always look back on my time in Saudi Arabia with fond memories and appreciation for the support and hospitality I received.”
Henderson’s departure from Al-Ettifaq is a significant loss for the club, which is currently in second place in the Saudi Pro League standings. The midfielder has been one of the team’s top performers, scoring five goals and providing five assists in 17 league appearances.
Henderson’s return to Europe is likely to spark speculation about his future with the English national team. The midfielder has been a key player for England in recent years, and his experience playing in Saudi Arabia may have boosted his chances of being selected for the team’s upcoming matches.
Overall, Henderson’s decision to leave Al-Ettifaq and return to Europe is a personal one, and it is likely to have significant implications for both the club and the player’s future in the world of football.
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.