Ajax Faces Financial Challenges and Potential Player Sales
Jordan Henderson’s time at Ajax may be cut short as the club considers selling the midfielder after a disappointing season. Henderson joined Ajax in January, ending his contract with Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia. This move was met with criticism from Liverpool supporters who felt that their former captain had burned bridges by choosing to join the Saudi Pro League. Despite settling into a regular role at Ajax and even serving as captain, Henderson’s future at the club is uncertain.
Ajax’s failure to secure qualification for the Champions League next season, and potentially missing out on the Europa League as well, has put financial strain on the club. As a result, Ajax may be forced to sell some of their highest earners, including Henderson. According to reports from The Athletic’s David Ornstein and Dutch publication Voetbal International, financial problems at the Johan Cruyff Arena have made it necessary for the club to consider selling players in order to balance their books.
Henderson is currently earning £85,000 per week at Ajax, with bonuses potentially increasing his weekly wage to £110,000. This makes him the highest earner at the club, surpassing Steven Bergwijn, who earns £76,000 per week. Ornstein also notes that there is a belief among some that Henderson and Bergwijn were enticed by a project at Ajax that has yet to materialize during a turbulent period for the club.
Ajax’s current position in the Eredivisie is far below their usual standard. They can finish no higher than fifth this season, which would only secure them a Europa League qualifier. Teams placed sixth to ninth will have to compete in playoffs for a chance to qualify for the Europa Conference League. This is a significant departure from Ajax’s usual status as perennial title contenders, having won the league as recently as the 2021/2022 season.
If Henderson were to be sold, it remains to be seen whether he would return to England or attract interest from other European clubs. Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, and Juventus were all previously linked to the midfielder when his early departure from Saudi Arabia was reported. However, Leverkusen has denied any interest in signing him.
During his time at Ajax, Henderson has made 10 appearances, including both legs of the Europa Conference League last 16 defeat against Aston Villa. As the summer transfer window approaches, the future of the 33-year-old midfielder is uncertain, and fans will eagerly await any developments regarding his potential transfer.