Jordan Henderson has officially parted ways with Al Ettifaq, ending his time in the Saudi Pro League after just a matter of months as he joins Ajax on a two-and-a-half year contract.

Henderson will wear the number six shirt for Ajax, famously worn by Clarence Seedorf in the 1990s.

“We wanted an experienced midfielder with leadership qualities,” Ajax coach John van’t Schip explained. “Partially due to injuries in the team, we were looking for someone who could step in immediately. Jordan Henderson is that type of player.”

“His arrival means a huge enhancement for our squad. Both on and off the pitch, a football player of this calibre is important for our many young players. He’s an English international player and has won the Champions League and many other prizes with Liverpool. I am happy he’s here, and I think it’s very good for our club that he’s an Ajacied from today onwards.”

Henderson was heavily criticised when he made the switch to Saudi Arabia in the summer, with the former Liverpool captain accused of chasing the money by moving to a country where, as a one-time vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, homosexuality remains criminalised.

A statement from the Saudi Pro League delivered on Thursday evening read: “Al-Ettifaq FC and Jordan Henderson have today mutually agreed to terminate the player’s contract with the club with immediate effect. The decision follows an amicable conclusion to the relationship with the player.”

Henderson himself said of his premature departure: “I’d like to thank the club, the fans and all involved for the opportunity and wish them the best for the remainder of the season. A lot of hard work is going in which I know will pay off in the future.”

Samer Al Misehal, Al Ettifaq president added: “We are always respectful of our players. The club and Jordan believe this quick decision, without any delay or further distraction, has been made for both the overall good of the club and for Jordan.”