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Jordan Henderson is expected to stay in Saudi Arabia for the rest of the season.
Jordan Henderson of Al Ettifaq is likely to stay in Saudi Arabia for the rest of the season.
Following the expiration of his Liverpool contract in the summer, the England international made the contentious decision to join Al Ettifaq.
While Henderson insisted that he was eager to help grow the game in the Middle East, his decision to relocate to Saudi Arabia drew criticism given his previous public support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Jordan Henderson to stay at Al-Ettifaq until the end of the season
Henderson has made 19 competitive appearances for Steven Gerrard’s Al Ettifaq since joining the club.
Despite being under contract until June 2026, Henderson’s future was recently called into question after it was revealed that he wanted to return to Europe.
Following reports that Henderson’s family was having difficulty settling in the Middle East, Juventus emerged as a possible suitor for the player.
As Massimiliano Allegri looks to strengthen his midfield, the Italian giants allegedly held talks with the 33-year-old about a possible loan deal.
Ajax were also looking into a possible deal after interim manager John van ‘t Schip confirmed the club’s interest following Saturday’s win over Go Ahead Eagles.
“I can confirm the club and Henderson are talking,” Ajax’s head coach told reporters. He now has to deal with his club.”
Henderson, however, is likely to stay in Saudi Arabia for the rest of the 2023-24 season, according to the Daily Mail.
According to the report, Al Ettifaq have no intention of letting the 33-year-old leave the club before the current transfer window closes.
Officials from the club anticipate speaking with Henderson soon, given the current uncertainty surrounding his future.
Henderson has flown to Abu Dhabi to join his teammates for a two-week training camp while the Saudi Pro League is on a mid-season break.
Al Ettifaq will return to action against Al Khaleej next month, hoping to turn their fortunes around after failing to win any of their previous nine competitive matches.
Henderson will be hoping for success for himself and his team in the second half of the season in order to secure a spot in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2024.
