The former Liverpool captain joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq in the summer in a hugely controversial transfer having been an LGBTQ+ ally throughout his career in the Premier League and with the national team.
He joined the Saudi side in a deal reportedly worth £700,000-a-week. Just six months on, he returns to Europe with Al-Ettifaq agreeing to terminate his contract.
In a parting message to Al-Ettifaq, Henderson said: ‘I’d like to thank the club, the fans and all involved for the opportunity and wish them the best for the remainder of the season.
‘A lot of hard work is going in which I know will pay off in the future.’
Al-Ettifaq club president Samer Al Misehal revealed the contract termination had been reluctantly agreed to ‘avoid further distraction’ to their season.
‘Firstly, the club would like to thank Jordan for his efforts and wish him the best for his future endeavours,’ Al Misehal said.
‘We are always respectful of our players. The club and Jordan believe this quick decision, without any delay or further distraction, has been made for both the overall good of the club and for Jordan.’
Henderson joined At-Ettifaq in July, ending his 12-year stay at Liverpool and reuniting with former teammate Steven Gerrard who manages the Saudi side.
The 33-year-old completed the move vowing to ‘grow the game’ in Saudi where many of the game’s established names flocked in the summer transfer window.
The move attracted widespread criticism however. Homosexuality is illegal in Saudi Arabia with LGBTQ+ groups and their allies angered by Henderson’s summer switch given the England international’s previous vocal support for the gay community.
In an interview with the Athletic in September, Henderson said the move was not solely motivated by money, insisting he was relishing the chance to make the Saudi Pro League ‘one of the best in the world.’
It has been widely reported that Henderson has struggled to settle in Saudi.
Since leaving the Premier League, Henderson has continued to be selected for England by Gareth Southgate and was booed by sections of the home support during games at Wembley Stadium in October.
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