Jordan Henderson Opens Up About "Difficult Periods" Following Saudi Switch

Jordan Henderson playing for Brentford
Jordan Henderson has played in multiple Premier League fixtures for Brentford this season

England midfielder Jordan Henderson admits he has experienced "challenging moments" since leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and admits he might "taken different decisions".

The 35-year-old was widely criticized for exiting Liverpool in 2023 to play for Al-Ettifaq in a nation where same-sex relationships are criminalized.

Henderson had previously been a prominent supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and said sorry for upsetting or offending members in the community when he departed from Saudi Arabia to sign with Ajax following a six-month period.

International Selection and Thoughts

Henderson missed out on Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but has come back to the Premier League with Brentford and England's selection under Thomas Tuchel.

"I don't think it was the factor why I missed the Euros," Henderson remarked. "While I was in Saudi I believe I was in each gathering prior to the Euros."

"Timing-wise, with everything in looking back, yes - maybe I would have taken different decisions."

"However at the time that's how I thought and the decision I made was for various reasons and solely I know them reasons."

Emotional Challenges

"Honestly speaking, over the past few years I have had various tough moments. It felt like a parting when I left Liverpool."

"Naturally I'm not flawless and I've made mistakes in the past. Certainly I will have over my career."

"But all I've ever sought to do is the correct thing."

International Career

Henderson has earned 85 caps since making his England debut against France in 2010.

He is in Tuchel's squad to compete against Wales and Latvia this week and feels he still has plenty to offer on the pitch.

"The key people are the coach, the backroom staff and the players and what they think," said Henderson.

"Ask them what they believe, if I am a motivator when I am here. I don't think one of the top managers in Europe would be picking me just to do that."

Jacob Garcia
Jacob Garcia

A passionate writer and life coach dedicated to helping others achieve their full potential through mindfulness and positive habits.