In a surprising turn of events, Jordan Henderson, the former Liverpool skipper, has not received any payment from his high-profile stint at Al-Ettifaq.
Henderson, 33, who made a headline-grabbing move to Saudi Arabia last summer, is now back in Europe, reportedly sealing a deal with Ajax after deciding to cut ties with the Saudi club.
Henderson's Financial Sacrifice for England's Career
Despite his star status and a whopping £700,000-per-week contract, Henderson has chosen not to take any payment from Al-Ettifaq.
16:48 - 17.01.2024
After Six Months in Saudi Arabia, Jordan Henderson Poised for Sensational Ajax Switch
Jordan Henderson, the star midfielder from England, has struck a deal with Al Ettifaq, marking the end of his chapter in the Saudi Pro League.
15:56 - 07.01.2024
REPORT: Ex-Liverpool captain Henderson desperate to leave Saudi Arabia, regrets ₦700m-a-week summer move
Life in Saudi Arabia has apparently not been a bed of Roses for former Liverpool star Jordan Henderson
This strategic move was aimed at easing his return to England, potentially boosting his chances of playing for Gareth Southgate's national team.
\It's a decision that circumvented the tax residency restrictions in the UK, which apply to individuals spending less than 90 days a year in the country.
From Saudi Arabia to Ajax: A New Chapter Begins
Henderson's time in the Middle East, which saw him make 19 appearances under the guidance of manager Steven Gerrard, has been challenging both professionally and personally.
SunSport reports that the midfielder's family had difficulty settling in Saudi Arabia, contributing to his decision to leave.
His next chapter at Ajax involves a significant pay cut, with his weekly earnings in the Eredivisie being just over £77,000, a stark contrast to his previous salaries at Liverpool and Al-Ettifaq.
This shift not only marks a new beginning for Henderson but also leaves a considerable void at Al-Ettifaq. Gerrard, who recently lost his assistant Ian Foster, now faces the departure of his star signing, adding to the mounting challenges for the Saudi club.