Jordan Henderson Wants Out of Saudi Arabia – but Leaving Could Cost £7m in Tax
England’s vice-captain, Jordan Henderson, who controversially left Liverpool for Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq in the summer, is reportedly struggling to settle in Saudi Arabia and is actively looking for a way to return to England or possibly move elsewhere in Europe, according to sources speaking to Telegraph Sport.
Henderson is hoping to secure a transfer in the January window, potentially starting with a loan deal. However, leaving Al-Ettifaq would mean taking a significant pay cut from his tax-free earnings of £350,000 per week. Henderson’s current three-year contract, signed in July, includes a clause that voids the tax-free element if he fails to stay for at least two years, potentially resulting in a £7 million cost if he were to depart this month.
This news emerges amidst mounting pressure on manager Steven Gerrard, whose side has failed to secure a victory in eight consecutive Pro League matches since November. Al-Ettifaq currently sits eighth in the league, a staggering 28 points behind the leaders, Al-Hilal.
The departure of Gerrard’s assistant, Ian Foster, who has accepted the managerial position at Plymouth Argyle, adds to the challenges faced by the club. Foster played a pivotal role in convincing Henderson to join Al-Ettifaq.
Notably, Henderson’s move to a country where homosexuality is criminalized sparked widespread criticism, particularly given his past support for the LGBTQ+ community. Despite his attempts to clarify his decision and deny prioritizing money over morals, he faced further backlash. The 33-year-old has even faced boos while representing England, as concerns persist over the lower standard of the Saudi Pro League compared to major European leagues.
Compounding these doubts is the issue of low attendance at many Saudi Pro League matches, raising questions about whether it adequately prepares players for competitions such as the upcoming European Championship in Germany.
However, Al-Ettifaq is unlikely to let Henderson leave without a fight. The midfielder was their marquee signing in the summer, and his arrival was part of Saudi Arabia’s substantial investment in sports. The club’s significant financial backing has attracted several other high-profile players to the region.
Jordan Henderson’s desire to leave Saudi Arabia is intensifying, even at the potential cost of millions in taxes. As he seeks a way out of Al-Ettifaq, the midfielder hopes to secure a move back to England or elsewhere in Europe. With mounting pressure on manager Steven Gerrard and the club’s recent struggles, it remains uncertain whether Al-Ettifaq will be willing to release their statement signing from the summer so easily.
