Jordan Henderson’s Legacy Unharmed Despite Move to Saudi Arabia, Says Saudi Pro League Director
In a recent interview, the director of football for the Saudi Pro League (SPL), Michael Emenalo, defended Jordan Henderson’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia and insisted that his legacy has not been damaged. Emenalo compared the lack of LGBTQI+ rights in Saudi Arabia to cultural differences regarding alcohol consumption in different countries.
Henderson, the former Liverpool captain, who is set to make his debut for his new club Al Eittfaq on Monday night, has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQI+ rights in recent years. However, his move to Saudi Arabia, where same-sex relations can be punished with imprisonment and, in theory, the death penalty, has drawn criticism.
Emenalo, who was previously the technical director for Chelsea, is responsible for recruiting players for all 18 SPL teams, many of which are funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Last month, Emenalo stated that joining the SPL would define players’ legacies.
When questioned about the perceived hypocrisy of Henderson’s move, Emenalo argued that the midfielder should not be judged differently. He pointed out that Lionel Messi’s move to the MLS in North America enhances his legacy, and there is something wrong with viewing Henderson’s move negatively.
Emenalo stated, “I find it hard to understand why coming here would damage his legacy and Messi going to the MLS enhances his legacy. There is something wrong with that. I don’t get why that would be the case.”
He further emphasized that Henderson remains supportive of gay rights and that his move to Saudi Arabia does not change anything. Emenalo expressed his belief in respecting the cultures of every country and highlighted the differences in cultural practices regarding alcohol consumption as an example.
“In some countries, you can drink publicly but it has to be in a brown paper bag; and in others, you can do this inside your home or not at all,” Emenalo explained. He added, “It is what it is. It doesn’t change the views of Jordan Henderson.”
Emenalo defended Henderson’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia, stating that the midfielder is a professional in the open market who is looking to do what is best for him. He also highlighted the opportunities for living with family, having fun, and pursuing a career in Saudi Arabia without any concerns.
“I think people will come around, and I think Jordan Henderson will be one of the reasons that people look back and say, ‘Well, this is not bad after all’,” Emenalo concluded.
In conclusion, the director of football for the Saudi Pro League, Michael Emenalo, has defended Jordan Henderson’s move to Saudi Arabia and insisted that his legacy has not been damaged. Emenalo compared the lack of LGBTQI+ rights in Saudi Arabia to cultural differences regarding alcohol consumption in different countries. He emphasized that Henderson remains supportive of gay rights and that his move does not change anything. Emenalo believes that Henderson’s presence in Saudi Arabia will help change perceptions and show that the country offers opportunities for growth and a fulfilling career.