Jordan Henderson’s Potential Move to Saudi Arabia: What Liverpool Supporters Need to Know
The potential move of Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson to Saudi Arabia has been a major talking point for supporters of the club. Reports suggest that the 33-year-old midfielder is considering joining Steven Gerrard’s Al Ettifaq, with a quadrupling of his current wages said to be on offer. With Henderson set to hold talks with Jurgen Klopp on Thursday, supporters have a lot to discuss, from his diminishing role in the team, the potential for new signings if he does leave, the life-changing money involved, his legacy at Liverpool, and the potential hypocrisy after him being such a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.
Henderson’s Role at Liverpool
Ideally, Henderson would now fulfill the role Milner previously occupied. Not a regular starter, but offering experience and leadership on and off the pitch. Unfortunately, the failure to fully rebuild a midfield has helped create a situation in which he can argue for more.
The Financials of Henderson’s Potential Move
If Henderson were to make the move to Saudi Arabia, he would be looking at a net salary of £140 million after taxes. This is a huge increase from the estimated £40 million net he has made in his 14-year professional career. It is clear that this is an opportunity for Henderson to set himself and his family up for life.
The Impact of Henderson’s Potential Departure on Liverpool
If Henderson were to leave Liverpool this summer, it would reduce the wage bill by over £50 million in 23/24. This would be partly offset by wages for incomings plus new deals, but it would still leave a significant amount of money available for new signings. The loss of Henderson and James Milner in the same window would not be favourable, but it could help bring in midfield reinforcements.
Henderson’s Legacy at Liverpool
Where do you even start with this man? Jordan Henderson has had some 12 year career at #LFC. Lots of downs but, they came with plenty of ups. A serious leader & born-winner, lifted everything possible. If he leaves, he leaves a legend. Thankyou Skip!
Many would not begrudge Henderson leaving as he has won it all and deserves a payday. It makes sense for all parties; he gets a huge final payday and the club gets to move on to a new younger midfield. It is also worth noting that if Henderson were to leave, it could open up opportunities for younger players such as Khephren Thuram, Manu Kone, and Lavia who have prior ground work established.
Henderson’s Role as an LGBT Rights Ambassador
Henderson has been an ambassador for LGBT rights and many highlighted this when discussing his potential move to Saudi Arabia where homosexuality is illegal. It would instantly tarnish his socially progressive reputation and many feel that he does not even need the money. It would be a thoroughly depressing transfer all around.
The Homegrown Quota
A key factor Liverpool would need to consider if Henderson were to leave is the homegrown quota. He is one of just five likely to be registered as part of the first team and to name a full 25-man squad there must be at least eight. This would leave Kelleher, Gomez, Trent and Jones as the only homegrown players in the squad.
Conclusion
Jordan Henderson has been an integral part of Liverpool Football Club for 12 years and his potential move to Saudi Arabia has certainly been a major talking point for supporters. There are many factors to consider, from his diminishing role in the team itself, the potential for new signings if he does leave, the life-changing money involved, his legacy at Liverpool, and the potential hypocrisy after him being such a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ community. Whatever happens in Thursday’s talks between Henderson and Jurgen Klopp, it is sure to be an emotional day for all involved.