Jordan Henderson makes "difficult" transfer admission after quick Saudi U-turn

19 January 2024 , 07:13

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Jordan Henderson has admitted his time in Saudi Arabia was "difficult" (Image: Ajax FC)

Jordan Henderson has admitted that the past six months have been "difficult" for him following his decision to move to Saudi Arabia.

The former Liverpool captain, 33, quit Anfield back in July in order to pursue a lucrative move to Al-Ettifaq but the midfielder has been seeking a return to Europe in recent weeks after failing to settle in the Saudi Pro League.

And after reaching an agreement to tear up the three-year contract he signed with Al-Ettifaq in the summer, Henderson got his wish on Thursday evening when he completed a transfer to Dutch giants Ajax.

Despite claiming he was sad to be leaving Al-Ettifaq on social media, it's been widely reported that Henderson's stint in the Middle East was not a happy one. The club, managed by Henderson's former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard, have not won a game since October, while matches have been played in front of tiny crowds.

Although Henderson didn't delve into too much detail, he did concede that he had endured a difficult six months in his first official interview with Ajax club media. Referencing the Eredivisie outfit's own struggles this season, Henderson said: "It's been a difficult year or so for the club, both on and off the field, but that's the same for me in the past six months. So hopefully we can help each other, come together and try and be as successful as possible in the near future."

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The veteran went on to detail how quickly the move had come about during the same interview. Juventus were also interested in securing Henderson's services, but Amsterdam was his chosen destination.

He added: "It's been a bit of a whirlwind. A crazy few days but I'm just excited now to be here and to be able to start a new chapter in my life and in my career. I'm so excited to be here and part of this club."

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Henderson lasted just six months in Saudi Arabia after joining Al-Ettifaq from Liverpool in the summer (Getty Images)

While Henderson paid tribute to his former club on social media after sealing a swift exit, Al-Ettifaq president Samer Al Misehal appeared to take a parting shot at the midfielder.

He seemingly suggested that the club didn't want to retain Henderson's services, saying: "Firstly, the club would like to thank Jordan for his efforts and wish him the best for his future endeavours.

"We are always respectful of our players. The club and Jordan believe this quick decision, without any delay or further distraction, has been made for both the overall good of the club and for Jordan."

He continued: "There is a lot still to play for. But this is a very tough league and the team performances required and expected by the club in the second half of the season under coach Steven Gerrard demand complete unity and commitment from all players and staff, and we look forward to regaining new momentum from this point forward through our winter training camp."

Dan Marsh