Premier League Return on Cards for Former Liverpool Captain After Ajax Spell | OneFootball

Jordan Henderson’s Future at Crossroads as Premier League Sides Circle

Jordan Henderson, the former Liverpool captain and one-time heartbeat of Jurgen Klopp’s midfield machine, finds himself at a familiar crossroads. According to The Mail, both Nottingham Forest and Marseille are eager to sign the 35-year-old this summer. With a clause in his Ajax contract allowing him to leave for free before mid-July, the midfielder is in a position to shape his final act in top-level football.

Ajax Chapter Ends in Frustration

Henderson’s move to Ajax in January 2024 was intended as a reprieve after his ill-fated stint in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq. It was a return to European football and, crucially, a return to purpose. He made 57 appearances under Francesco Farioli, helping Ajax mount a title challenge they would ultimately squander in the final month. Despite the collapse, he wore the captain’s armband with distinction and became a pillar under new coach John Heitinga.

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“He played 45 times for Ajax last season as Francesco Farioli’s men narrowly missed out on winning the Dutch title despite having a commanding lead with a month to play.”

England Ambitions Still Burning

Now, with England and abroad calling, Henderson must decide whether to remain in Amsterdam or seek another chapter. His motivation? A final major tournament with his country.

“The 35-year-old remains a trusted component of Thomas Tuchel’s England squads and wants to play in next summer’s World Cup.”

He has already featured in both squads under Tuchel and could be seen as a calm veteran presence in a changing national team landscape.

Legacy of Loyalty and Silverware

From his Sunderland roots to his decorated Liverpool career, Henderson’s CV gleams with honours and influence. He was Klopp’s general, a leader who lifted everything from the Champions League to the Premier League.

“He lifted the Premier League title in 2020, while he also won two EFL Cups, the FA Cup, Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, Community Shield and Club World Cup.”

Yet his 2023 move to Al-Ettifaq earned criticism from fans and communities alike, and the quick return to Europe was a quiet admission of misjudgement.

“He endured a difficult six-month stint in the Middle East.”

Decision Time for a Veteran Leader

What comes next for Henderson may rest less on sentiment and more on timing. With England aspirations still alive, he will need regular minutes and tactical trust. Nottingham Forest could offer the former, Marseille the latter, but Ajax still remains an option if the ambition is matched.

“He has not fully decided whether it is best to leave or stay put at Ajax but clubs in England and abroad are keen to have his experience in their squad.”

Whatever path he chooses, Henderson is unlikely to take this decision lightly. His next step may define not just the end of his career but the tone of his legacy.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This would be a smart bit of business from Forest. While Jordan Henderson may not be the high-energy midfielder he once was, his experience, leadership, and tactical discipline would bring another level to our young squad. Just imagine him next to Morgan Gibbs-White, mentoring Danilo, or even controlling a tight away day at Goodison or Selhurst Park.

Sure, people will point to the Saudi Arabia fiasco, but no one is pretending he’s the future. He’s a bridge, a short-term gamechanger, and more importantly, he’s free. That’s huge for a club like Forest, who need leadership and know-how to stay out of the relegation conversation next season.

And let’s be honest, if Thomas Tuchel trusts him with a place in the England squad, he’s still got plenty to offer. As long as we don’t hand him a five-year contract, bringing in Henderson could be one of the smarter under-the-radar moves this summer. Fingers crossed it gets done.