Jordan Henderson, the former Liverpool captain, has officially joined Ajax after his disastrous time in Saudi Arabia.

On Thursday night (January 18), the 33-year-old announced his resignation from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq in a statement on X (previously known as Twitter).

Jordan Henderson has agreed a move to Dutch giants Ajax, bringing his Saudi nightmare to an end.

Henderson is Ajax’s new number 6.

The 33-year-old spent just six months in Saudi Arabia.

The English international is the first high-profile player to leave the Saudi Pro League.

He wrote, “I’m sad to report that I’ll be departing Al Ettifaq with immediate effect. It was not an easy decision, but I believe it is best for myself and my family.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the club and the supporters for all of their support during my time here. I could feel the affection from the first day. I will continue to monitor and hope for your success. “Good luck in the future.”

Ajax reached an agreement with Jordan Henderson.

The Eredivisie club announced the move shortly before Henderson’s statement, writing: “Ajax has reached an agreement with Jordan Henderson on his transfer to Amsterdam.” The midfielder spent the last six months at Al-Ettifaq. The player, who has 81 caps for the English national team, has opted to cancel his contract with the Saudi club.

The photoshoot captured his contagious smile, which reflected his desire to begin this new chapter in his career.

The England international returned to Europe after only six months in the Middle East, citing growing dissatisfaction with his family’s new lifestyle and unpleasant experiences on the pitch.

The Liverpool legend – who signed an 18-month deal with the option of a further year – joins a rejuvenated Ajax side who’ve not lost a game since October as interim boss John van ‘t Schip explained just how excited he is to introduce a player of Henderson’s quality to the squad. “We wanted an experienced midfielder with leadership qualities,” the Dutchman explained.

Jordan Henderson: UEFA Champions League winner in Mokum

Henderson will be eligible for Ajax’s Europa Conference League campaign, when they face Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt in the knockout stage playoffs next month.