Liverpool Football Club has officially announced the departure of their long-standing captain, Jordan Henderson, as he joins Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq in a deal worth £12 million, along with additional add-ons.
The 33-year-old midfielder had been with Liverpool for an impressive 12 years, during which he achieved remarkable success, including winning the Premier League and Champions League titles.
The news of Henderson's move was preceded by an emotional goodbye video he shared a day before the official announcement, expressing his gratitude to the club and its fans.
Liverpool issued a statement, expressing their heartfelt thanks for all the contributions Henderson made during his time at Anfield.
Henderson's journey with Liverpool began in 2011 when he joined the club from Sunderland for a transfer fee of £20 million.
Over the years, he proved to be an essential part of the team, making 492 appearances, scoring 33 goals, and providing 57 assists. Throughout his tenure, he also lifted seven major trophies with the Reds.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp praised Henderson's legendary status at the club, stating that he was the only captain he had during his time as Liverpool's manager.
Klopp admitted that it would be tough to see Henderson leave, but he also acknowledged the excitement that lies ahead for the midfielder as he embarks on a new journey with Al-Ettifaq.
In his new club, Henderson will reunite with former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard, who is currently the manager of Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League.
The pair had a close relationship during their time together at Anfield.
Henderson's captaincy saw Liverpool achieve significant milestones, including their memorable Champions League triumph in 2019, followed by victories in the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup later that year.
He was also at the helm when Liverpool ended their 30-year wait for the Premier League title during the 2019-20 season.
Apart from his domestic successes, Henderson was instrumental in leading Liverpool to FA Cup and League Cup victories in 2022, showcasing his enduring impact on the club.
Despite the celebrations from fans and teammates for his time at Liverpool, Henderson's transfer has also sparked some controversy.
Criticism arose from LGBTQ+ campaigners due to the fact that same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Saudi Arabia, raising questions about the player's past support for the LGBTQ+ community.
The move to Al-Ettifaq has made Henderson part of a growing trend of high-profile players heading to Saudi Arabia this summer.
His former teammate Roberto Firmino joined Al-Ahli, and Al-Ittihad made a significant bid for Liverpool midfielder Fabinho.
Premier League chief Richard Masters expressed a nonchalant attitude towards the impact of Saudi Arabian clubs' spending, stating that they have the right to purchase players just like any other league.
He emphasized the ambitious goals of the Saudi Pro League to become one of the world's top leagues in the coming years.
As Jordan Henderson begins his new chapter in Saudi Arabia, Liverpool fans and football enthusiasts around the world will undoubtedly remember his immense contributions to the Reds' history.