Jordan Henderson was signed by Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq on Thursday, just a few weeks after appointing Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard as manager.
The England international, who led Liverpool to Premier League and Champions League victories, is the latest star to move to the oil-rich kingdom. He will reportedly earn 700,000 pounds ($900,000) per week.
“Liverpool Football Club can confirm Jordan Henderson has completed a transfer to Al-Ettifaq,” the team said in a statement. “The move to the Saudi Pro League side sees the midfielder bring an end to his 12-year Reds career, during which he lifted eight trophies, all but one of which as club captain.”
In an effort to boost interest in football in the nation, the Saudi league has signed a number of top players from Europe. Stars including Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Roberto Firmino have transferred to Al-Nassr after Cristiano Ronaldo moved in December.
At Liverpool, Henderson won every significant club award, including the Premier League championship in 2020 and the Champions League in 2019. He has 2 years left on his current deal, but his exit comes as Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp overhauls his midfield.
James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have all left the club, while Fabio Carvalho has signed a season-long loan with RB Leipzig.