Jordan Henderson Completes Permanent Move to Ajax
Liverpool FC midfielder Jordan Henderson has officially signed a permanent deal with Eredivisie club Ajax. The 33-year-old terminated his contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq two-and-a-half years early to make the move.
Henderson’s time in Saudi Arabia was short-lived, as he only played 19 matches and provided five assists during his captaincy under Steven Gerrard. Reports suggested that he may not have received his £350,000-a-week wages, adding controversy to his transfer.
After ruling out a return to England, Henderson explored options in Europe and was linked to clubs such as Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, and Juventus. Ultimately, he chose to join Ajax on a two-and-a-half-year contract.
The midfielder expressed his excitement about the move on Twitter, stating, “Amsterdam! So happy to be here. Can’t wait to see you all soon.” He underwent a medical examination in Amsterdam before finalizing the deal. It is reported that Henderson will earn upwards of £100,000 per week plus bonuses, making him the highest-paid player at Ajax.
Unfortunately, Henderson will not be able to make his debut against RKC Waalwijk due to the need for a work permit as a non-EU national. The process can take up to two weeks, but there are suggestions that he could be involved in the next weekend’s match against Heracles. His first home appearance is expected to be against Eredivisie leaders PSV Eindhoven on February 3.
Henderson’s move to Ajax means that he will not have the opportunity for a reunion with Liverpool this season. Ajax has dropped down from the Europa League to the Europa Conference League.
Ajax had a difficult start to the season, winning only four of their first 12 games in the Eredivisie and one of their first five in the Europa League group stage. However, they have improved in recent months, winning five of their last seven matches since December.
Despite their recent success, Ajax is currently in fifth place and 23 points behind league leaders PSV. Henderson will have a challenging task ahead of him as he aims to inspire a turnaround at the Johan Cruyff Arena.