England's Henderson Departs Ajax in Surprise Move

AMSTERDAM, July 10, 2025

Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has left Ajax after the Dutch club agreed to terminate his contract a year early, marking a surprising end to his 18-month stint in the Netherlands. The 35-year-old England midfielder, who joined Ajax in January 2024 following a brief spell with Saudi club Al-Ettifaq, is now a free agent, with interest reportedly coming from clubs in the Premier League and across Europe.

Henderson, who made 57 appearances and captained Ajax, played a pivotal role in the club’s resurgence, helping them recover from a challenging 2023/24 season to challenge for the Eredivisie title. Despite leading the league by nine points with five games remaining last season, Ajax faltered, allowing PSV Eindhoven to clinch the title. “I would like to express my immense gratitude to everyone associated with Ajax,” Henderson said in a statement. “To play for this club was an honors in itself, and to captain it was even more so.”

The midfielder’s departure comes amid personal grief, as Henderson recently returned to Liverpool to pay respects to former teammate Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away. In a heartfelt statement, Henderson noted, “Due to the tragic events of last week, it doesn’t feel right to say more than this brief statement, but I owe Ajax, my teammates, and the supporters a fuller thank you.”

Ajax Technical Director Alex Kroes praised Henderson’s impact, stating, “Jordan was a true captain for us, both on and off the pitch.” While speculation swirls about a potential return to the Premier League, including links to his boyhood club Sunderland, local reports suggest the Black Cats are focusing on younger talent. Henderson, with 84 England caps and a recent recall under manager Thomas Tuchel, is said to be weighing his options with the 2026 World Cup in mind.

Sources indicate financial considerations, including Henderson’s high salary, played a role in the mutual decision to part ways. As the football world awaits his next move, Henderson’s leadership and experience make him a valuable prospect for clubs seeking a proven winner.