Henderson: “The reasons that led me to Saudi Arabia were football and not financial”

One of the biggest names that decided to move to Saudi Arabia this summer is his Jordan Hendersonwho now wears her jersey Al Etifaq.

Its former leader Liverpoolwho left the “Reds” after 12 years, 492 appearances and many titles, emphasized that the reasons that led him to the Arab country are football and not financial, spoke about the reactions of the LGBTQ+ community around his decision, while stated that he did not feel that the Liverpool people wanted him in the team.

In detail what he said:



On his decision to move to Saudi Arabia: “I think I would be criticized no matter what I decided. I had to make a decision which would be best for me and my family. So, I went somewhere to try something new, to improve the sport I love in another country. This is what excites me, to make the sport known around the world. That was one of the main reasons I came to Saudi Arabia.”.

On the reactions of the LGBTQ+ community to his decision: “Obviously, I can understand the backlash and frustration from the LGBTQ+ community. All I can say is I’m sorry they feel that way. It was never my intention to hurt anyone. My purpose is always to help people when they ask for my help. Anyone can easily criticize a country when they live so far away from it. You have to respect the religion and the culture they have here”.

On how he decided to go to Al Etifaq: “The decision to move to Saudi Arabia was about football and not about money. The salary they say I have at Al Etifaq is not the one reported in the media. Moreover, in the last few days I have found that things here are not as they are presented in England.”.

On his departure from Liverpool: “If someone from Liverpool had told me we want you to stay, we wouldn’t be having this conversation now. I had to think about the rest of my career. I’m not saying they forced me to leave or that they wanted me to leave, but in no way did I feel they wanted me to stay.”.

¦ “Me playing in Saudi is a positive”
¦ “It’s not about money”
¦ “I understand criticism from LGBTQ+ groups”
¦ “You have to respect Saudi religion & culture”
¦ “If one person at #LFC asked me to stay, I would have”

Jordan Henderson speaks to @David_Ornstein & @AdamCrafton_

— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) September 5, 2023