Sunday found Jordan Henderson in the stands of the Johan Cruyff Arena, subsequent to the rescheduling of his Ajax debut due to a regulation arising from the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union. 

Jordan Henderson was spotted in the stands watching his new club at Johan Cruyff Arena on Sunday

Henderson watched his new Ajax team-mates in action after his debut was delayed

The England midfielder had signed a two-and-a-half year deal with the Amsterdam outfit

Thursday, following the termination of his contract with Saudi club Al-Ettifaq, the 33-year-old midfielder signed with the Dutch club.

The England midfielder made a two-and-a-half-year commitment to the Amsterdam club. 

However, despite the enthusiastic reception that Henderson received upon his arrival in the Dutch city, John van t’ Schip’s squad will be required to apply for and obtain approval for a work visa prior to his appearance due to Brexit.

Henderson joined Ajax earlier this month after departing Saudi side Al-Ettifaq

Ajax emerged victorious 4-1 over RKC Waalwijk in Henderson’s absence, thanks to two first-half goals from Brian Brobbey.

In this case, Henderson’s approval will be a mere formality; however, the process could potentially extend for two weeks, thereby delaying the midfielder’s debut until early February.

Henderson conveyed his remorse to the LGBTQ+ supporters who were offended by his relocation to Saudi Arabia subsequent to his conversation with Gareth Southgate. Additionally, he expressed his anticipation of performing admirably enough at Ajax to earn a call-up to England’s Euro 2024 squad.

Following his transfer from Liverpool to Al Ettifaq on a three-year contract, Henderson debuted at the Johan Cruyff Arena of Ajax in Amsterdam, where he provided an explanation for his U-turn. A champion of the LGBTQ+ community, the 33-year-old midfielder was accused of betrayal for that action, given that same-sex relationships are prohibited in Saudi Arabia.

Henderson stated on Friday, “I extend my sincerest apologies to any members of that community who may have experienced disappointment or distress.” Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp extended support to Henderson as well. If I offended or insulted anyone, please accept my sincere apologies; that was my decision. That was never the intention of mine.

“At this time, my only objective is to perform at my highest level for Ajax.” My views have not changed and will not change. My sincere apologies are once more extended to those who have been disappointed.

Henderson faced further censure from certain individuals who characterized his apology as “if you were offended,” whereas Ajax supporters embraced him.

On Friday, rumors surfaced that this shirt has sold through the Dutch team’s quickest-ever quantity of merchandise, subsequent to Al Ettifaq’s consent to terminate his contract to facilitate the transfer. 

The team is in the midst of an incredible stretch of play that has allowed them to recuperate from an abysmal start to the season when the 33-year-old joins.

However, due to Brexit regulations, the English midfielder will be unable to make his Eredivisie debut until he obtains a work permit. 

After five defeats in their first nine league games, the team reached its lowest-ever standing in the Dutch top division at the end of October. The dismissal of manager Maurice Steijn sparked widespread fan indignation.

Subsequent to that, however, the team has responded positively under interim manager Van t’ Schip, reclaiming their position in the European race with six victories in their last eight matches. 

In the Europa Conference League, Ajax continues to strive for its first continental championship since 1995.

The club qualified for the elimination round of the competition by securing the third position in their Europa League group. In February, they will face the Norwegian team Bodo/Glimt in an effort to advance to the round of 16.