Jordan Henderson was introduced in Amsterdam with a joyful expression, surrounded by snow and frost. This was a stark contrast to his previous location of Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
The ex-captain of Liverpool has joined Ajax in order to assist a youthful team in overcoming recent difficulties and reclaiming their usual position at the forefront of Dutch soccer. He also aims to showcase his skills and secure a spot on England’s roster for the European Championship. Despite this, he appears reluctant to publicly address the repercussions of his brief stint in the Saudi Pro League.
Henderson has justified his decision to relocate to Saudi Arabia by positioning himself as a student eager to learn. When asked about any potential regrets during his introduction at the Johan Cruyff Arena, he replied, “You can label them as regrets or mistakes in life, but they only hold that label if you don’t gain knowledge from them. I gained valuable experiences and learned a lot during my time in Saudi Arabia.”
I have no negative comments about anyone in the league or the club. I have friends there whom I will continue to speak with. Despite the outcome not being what we both desired, there are still some good things that came out of it and we ended things on good terms in the end.
The exact explanation for Henderson leaving his position and the details of his departure from the Saudi Pro League are unclear. It is probable that there were factors related to sports, as the quality of the newly revamped competition was noticeably poor. It is also widely known that Henderson had to give up a substantial sum of money in order to make the move. In any case, both parties have mutually agreed to handle the situation in a friendly manner, with the Pro League expressing deep gratitude to Henderson for his five months of service.
It is possible that this is the reason why Henderson provided only rehearsed and unoriginal responses when asked about human rights and his damaged reputation as an ally of the LGBTQ+ community. When questioned about whether concerns about sportswashing influenced his decision to return to Europe, Henderson stated that was not the case. When asked if he would attempt to connect with the LGBTQ+ community and improve relations now that he was back in a country where homosexuality is legal, Henderson chose not to address the question.
“I expressed my regret six months ago if anyone was offended or felt disappointed by my actions. I offer my apologies once again. My beliefs remain unchanged and I will continue to stand by them. I am still the same person and my main priority is to concentrate on football.”
Henderson’s apology is specific: “I apologize if you have been hurt,” rather than “I apologize for my actions.” This apology may not fully resolve the harm caused, as it suggests that support for equality is dependent on who is paying one’s wages. However, this carefully worded response makes it difficult for those questioning Henderson to find fault. The responses remain the same as they have been for the past six months, and it’s possible that people will soon grow tired of asking the same questions. Similarly, inquiries about the financial aspects of the situation may also become tiresome. In response to a question about potentially moving to the Netherlands to avoid paying taxes, Henderson stated, “Do not believe everything you read in the media.”
During a carefully restrained press conference, the most revealing moment was when Henderson discussed his emotions surrounding the controversy that engulfed him. He acknowledged being hurt, but also expressed understanding and concern for others. He clarified that he never intended to harm anyone, and while he may be hurt, he recognizes it as a natural part of life and professional football. His focus now is on returning to playing for Ajax and giving his best for the team.
Despite Henderson’s reluctance to discuss the past, it was evident that he was content with his recent decision. He has officially joined Ajax for a contract lasting two and a half years, tasked with stabilizing and guiding a group of inexperienced players who have had a tumultuous first half of the Eredivisie season. Despite their struggles, they are determined to qualify for the Champions League.
Henderson stated his decision to join Ajax was due to the club’s global significance and its position as the top club in the Netherlands. He expressed excitement for the chance to contribute to the club’s progress and achieve success.
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He was in a noticeably calm state, and even chuckled when a Dutch reporter compared him to a fine English wine that had aged well. The 33-year-old will now wear the No 6 jersey in Amsterdam, as he revealed that he had searched online to see if his preferred No 14 shirt, previously worn by Cruyff, had been retired (it had). If his new number means playing a more structured holding midfield role, as opposed to his previous roaming position at Liverpool, Henderson says he is content and ready to take on the leadership role at the club, which was previously held by players like Dusan Tadic and Daley Blind.
He stated that he doesn’t have a preference and is willing to do whatever is required. He has had plenty of experience playing both positions for Liverpool and England over the past five years. He is adaptable and will do whatever the team needs in specific games, following the coach’s decision.
Tadic and Blind performed exceptionally well, showcasing both their skills as players and their admirable character. However, I do not wish to make any comparisons to others. My goal is to simply be myself while here.
After returning to Europe, Henderson is now out of the intense focus of English football. He may finally have the opportunity to play his game without being distracted by any outside factors, something he had previously expressed a desire for. It is also possible that England will invite him to join their team. Henderson was consistently selected by Gareth Southgate during the fall and was open about his aspirations for the upcoming summer.
“I am constantly thinking about both the Euros and England,” he stated. “Playing for my country is a huge honor and it has always been a top priority for me, no matter where I have played. My main focus is performing well for Ajax on the field. I am fully committed and dedicated to the team.”
Source: theguardian.com
