Jordan Henderson departs Ajax to secure World Cup spot with England

In 2024, Jordan Henderson left Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia to join Ajax on a short-term deal. He quickly became the captain of the Dutch club and played a pivotal role in their campaign, almost leading them to a league title. However, despite a solid season, he decided not to extend his contract with Ajax due to aspirations of representing England in the upcoming World Cup. Henderson, who has had a distinguished international career with 84 caps, was recently recalled to the England squad by manager Thomas Tuchel. Thus, he is actively exploring options to enhance his likelihood of selection for the national team. Having previously captained Liverpool and achieved significant success, including triumphs in the Premier League and Champions League, Henderson faces a crucial phase in his career. His decision to leave Ajax came after his contract expired, and he aims to find a club that can provide him with more playing time and visibility ahead of the World Cup. The domestic league performances, coupled with the guidance of the new national team manager, will be essential in determining his future with the England squad. During his last season with Ajax, Henderson showcased leadership qualities and resilience, helping to bring stability to the team amidst competition. His experience in high-stakes matches was invaluable, but it wasn’t enough to secure a title as Ajax lost their lead in the latter part of the season. The midfielder is now at a crossroads, carefully considering his next career move to ensure he remains a viable candidate for national selection. With the World Cup approaching in the following summer, the urgency for Henderson to find a fitting club that aligns with his ambitions has intensified. He must navigate the transition from Ajax while assessing which opportunities might allow him to not only play regularly but also shine at the international level.