Jurgen Klopp Defends Jordan Henderson’s Return to Europe
Jurgen Klopp has come to the defense of his former Liverpool captain, Jordan Henderson, following his surprise move to Ajax from Saudi club At-Ettifaq.
Henderson left Liverpool to join the Saudi Pro League side in July in a hugely controversial move, signing a deal reportedly worth £700,000-per-week. However, just six months later, the 33-year-old has departed, ripping up his lucrative contract to sign a two-and-a-half-year deal with Dutch side Ajax.
The return to Europe has been met with criticism, especially after Henderson’s public vows to “grow the game” during his planned three-year stay in the Middle East. But Klopp has expressed his happiness for Henderson and stated that his happiness is the most important thing.
During a press conference before Liverpool’s game against Bournemouth, Klopp said, “I am happy for him because it looks like he’s happy and that’s the most important thing for me. I don’t read these stories, people are critical of the move, first there and now coming back. I don’t know how we dare to judge, we have one life and sometimes you make decisions and it is different after you make them. Ninety-nine percent when I spoke to him was football-wise, many things to develop there but not critical [of Saudi] but then he thought it was better to come back with his family. Ajax is a sensational club.”
As Klopp’s side prepares for their clash against Bournemouth, they are still waiting to learn the full extent of Mohamed Salah’s injury after he was forced off injured at the Africa Cup of Nations. When asked about the injury, Klopp stated that they don’t know anything yet and that further assessment is being done. He mentioned that it was a moment of shock and that Salah was hit with something of high intensity. Klopp expressed that Salah’s injuries are rare, so it is definitely something to be concerned about.
Overall, Klopp’s support for Henderson’s decision to return to Europe showcases his understanding and empathy towards his former captain. He believes that happiness should be the priority and acknowledges that life decisions can change after they are made.