The Dilemma of Liverpool FC Players and Saudi Arabia: A Human Rights Issue
The recent news of former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard’s move to Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia has sparked a debate about the implications of such a move for both the players and the club. In a country where homosexuality is illegal and human rights are questionable, the association of former and possibly current Liverpool players to the region is jarring.
Jordan Henderson, the current Liverpool captain, has been a strong advocate and ally for the LGBTQ+ community. His potential move to Saudi Arabia has the potential for serious hypocrisy. Kop Outs, an organisation in support of Liverpool’s LGBT+ fans, have voiced their concerns about this move and hope Henderson “proves to be a man of his word and stays true to the values of our club.”
The Human Rights Issue
Human rights are a major issue in Saudi Arabia, with strict laws for women and criminalisation of LGBTQ+ people. This is in direct contrast to what Liverpool FC and the city stands for, one of acceptance and where everyone is welcome. The expected social media responses may point to the fact that they are ‘just footballers or managers’, ‘let them get their pay check’, or ‘they’re not hurting anyone’. However, this completely misses the human element of it all and by accepting the ludicrous money it is a silent acceptance of what goes on – that goes for the football authorities too.
Kop Outs have said on social media that they have “valued” Henderson’s “allyship” but are “appalled and concerned” that anyone would consider working under such a regime. They hope Henderson “proves to be a man of his word and stays true to the values of our club, which so far he has been an absolute embodiment of.” As for Gerrard, his “participation in this sportswashing is particularly galling given his previous support for LA Galaxy teammate Robbie Rogers. Kop Outs added, “When someone’s made a fortune, should money tempt them to go to work? Maybe they should be asking themselves those questions.”
The Debate Around Money and Morals
The debate around money and morals is one that has been ongoing for years. Should money be a deciding factor when it comes to making decisions? Should people be allowed to make decisions based on their own moral compass? Or should they be held accountable for their actions?
The debate around money and morals is one that will continue to rage on for years to come. However, it is important to remember that when it comes to decisions such as these, there are always consequences. It is up to each individual to decide what they are willing to accept in order to make their decision.
Conclusion
The recent news of Steven Gerrard’s move to Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia has sparked a debate about the implications of such a move for both the players and the club. In a country where homosexuality is illegal and human rights are questionable, the association of former and possibly current Liverpool players to the region is jarring. Kop Outs have voiced their concerns about this move and hope Henderson “proves to be a man of his word and stays true to the values of our club.”
The debate around money and morals is one that will continue to rage on for years to come. However, it is important to remember that when it comes to decisions such as these, there are always consequences. It is up to each individual to decide what they are willing to accept in order to make their decision.