Liverpool FC captain Jordan Henderson might become the latest high-profile soccer star to be wooed by the irresistible riches of Saudi Arabian football. The 33-year-old midfielder is said to be considering a remarkable transfer to Saudi Pro League team Al-Ettifaq, following the likes of Karim Benzema who made a similar move earlier this summer.
The enticing proposition comes amid reports that Liverpool icon and Henderson's former teammate Steven Gerrard has agreed to step in as the new head coach for Al-Ettifaq. This potential reunion certainly sweetens the deal for Henderson.
Reports from The Athletic suggest that the lucrative offer on the table is hard for Henderson to overlook. The proposed contract is said to quadruple his current salary with Liverpool, promising an unprecedented income boost over a relatively short period.
Despite the Premier League being globally regarded as a superior league, the immense financial rewards from Saudi Pro League are reshaping the landscape. Henderson, who reportedly earns £190k per week at Anfield, is looking at a mammoth £700k per week offer from Al-Ettifaq. The fact that Saudi Arabia imposes no tax on his earnings only magnifies the allure.
However, Liverpool hasn't given up on retaining their captain. Henderson might favor staying in England to remain in Gareth Southgate's sights for the Euro 2024 selections. Regardless of Liverpool's performance in the upcoming season, Henderson believes he can exhibit his skills enough to retain a place in England's squad.
Henderson, who has two years left on his Liverpool contract, may also be reluctant to part ways with the club that has been his home since 2011. Manager Jurgen Klopp is expected to sit with the star to discuss his future, as reported by The Sun. Liverpool's recent disappointing fifth-place finish in the league and exclusion from the UEFA Champions League spots may factor into the conversation.
In an attempt to reclaim their former glory, Liverpool has made significant additions to their lineup, including Alexis Mac Allister and Hungarian star Dominik Szoboszlai. It is unclear how these new signings will impact Henderson's decision.
The Saudi Pro League, in the meantime, has been on an ambitious mission to revolutionize itself, largely helped by the acquisition of international stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo. While previously seen as a sunset destination for players, recent influxes have proven otherwise.
Steven Gerrard's acceptance of the Al-Ettifaq coaching job, along with the quality of incoming players, has helped reshape the narrative around Saudi Arabian football. Big names such as N'Golo Kante, Roberto Firmino, Jesse Lingard, and David de Gea have either confirmed moves or are in talks, contributing to the country's growing soccer prestige.
However, not all football stars are jumping on the Saudi bandwagon. Lionel Messi recently opted for Inter Miami despite a lucrative offer from Al-Hilal, and Real Madrid's Luka Modric extended his contract with the Spanish club, turning down a Saudi offer. These decisions underscore the diverse reactions to the increasingly appealing Saudi football scene.
