JORDAN HENDERSON LEAVES AJAX A YEAR EARLY AFTER CAPTAINING DUTCH GIANTS TO EUROPEAN RETURN

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

Former Liverpool and England midfielder, Jordan Henderson, has parted ways with Dutch club Ajax, a year before his contract was due to expire, the club confirmed on Thursday.

The 35-year-old joined Ajax in January 2024, just six months after a controversial stint with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq. His move to Saudi Arabia had drawn criticism due to the country’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights, clashing with Henderson’s previously vocal support for the community.

Despite the backlash, Henderson quickly turned a new page in Amsterdam, earning the captain’s armband and making 57 appearances for the club, which has boasted legends like Johan Cruyff and Dennis Bergkamp.

Under his leadership, Ajax rebounded from one of their worst seasons to mount a serious challenge for the Eredivisie title. However, the club dramatically squandered a nine-point lead with five matches remaining, ultimately handing the title to fierce rivals PSV Eindhoven.

Ajax Technical Director Alex Kroes praised Henderson’s influence: “Jordan was a true captain for us, both on and off the pitch. Through his mentality and leadership, he made a significant contribution to our qualification for the UEFA Champions League.”

Henderson’s performances also earned him a surprise recall to the England national team under new manager Thomas Tuchel in March.

Reflecting on his time at Ajax, Henderson said, “To play for this club was an honour in itself. To have the privilege of captaining it was even more so.”

He declined further comment, citing the “tragic events of last week,” referring to the sudden death of his former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota and Jota’s brother, Andre Silva, in a car accident in Spain.

Henderson’s next move remains unconfirmed, but his departure marks the end of a brief yet impactful chapter in Dutch football.