Ajax wants to complete Henderson’s arrival quickly

If all goes well, Henderson will sign a 2.5-year contract in the Johan Cruijff ArenA. Trainer John van ‘t Schip announced on Sunday after a fortunate away win at Go Ahead Eagels that he is looking forward to the arrival of the 81-time England international. He believes the experienced midfielder can take his new young teammates to the next level. He is also considered capable of making the midfield of the number 5 of the Eredivisie function better.

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Ajax does not have to pay a transfer fee for Henderson, several sources confirm. The midfielder must have his contract with Al-Ettifaq terminated himself. Al-Ettifaq has not yet confirmed the Briton’s departure. Ajax will only report transfers once all details of the contract have been completed.

Stunt transfer

Ajax stunts with the arrival of Henderson. The transfer is somewhat reminiscent of Mario Götze’s transition from Borussia Dortmund to PSV in 2020. The German had shot his national team to the world title in 2014.

Henderson made 492 appearances for Liverpool in 12 years before signing a lucrative contract with Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia last summer. As captain of the English top club, he won almost every possible trophy in club football, including the World Cup, Champions League, European Super Cup, national title, FA Cup and English Super Cup.

Criticism

Henderson was criticized for his decision to leave Liverpool for Al-Ettifaq, also because of his commitment to the LGBTQ+ community in England. He defended himself against the criticism. “When people criticize me or think I cheated on them, it hurts. All I can do is say sorry, but I haven’t changed as a person.”

Yet Henderson could not settle in Saudi Arabia, despite an annual salary of reportedly 15 million euros. Ajax responded decisively and wants to find its way back to the top with Henderson. It is not obvious that he can make his debut against RKC on Sunday. Ajax still has to apply for a work permit for him.