The midfielder of the English national team, Jordan Henderson, has stated that his transfer to the Arabs of Al-Ettifaq came as a result of the fact that he no longer felt wanted at Anfield. Henderson joined Liverpool in 2011 from Sunderland, and made 492 appearances for the Reds, winning the Premier League, Champions League, EFL Cup and FA Cup.
However, his position at the club began to waver last season, when the player was no longer a regular starter in Jurgen Klopp's side. The arrival of Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis McAllister at the club during the summer transfer window was another indication that the situation would not change in the new season, and Henderson has confirmed this for the first time. The Englishman said:
"If someone at Liverpool told me they wanted me to stay, we wouldn't be having this conversation. I don't want to say they were looking to force me out or to leave the club, but at no point did I feel wanted by the club or anyone else to stay."
Meanwhile, Henderson, like many other players, has been criticized for his move to Saudi Arabia. According to some reports, the Englishman is said to be paid up to 700 thousand pounds per week to Al-Ettifaq. Despite the fact that the midfielder has denied this figure, most fans continue to accuse the player that the choice to play for the Arab club was mostly driven by financial motives. Henderson commented:
"People may believe me or not, but in my life and career, money has never been the goal. Never.”
However, Henderson has admitted that the move to Saudi Arabia could affect his future in the English national team, as the starting role is no longer guaranteed.
