In a heartfelt interview, England midfielder Jordan Henderson opens up about the emotional toll of the criticism he faced after making a high-profile move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq from Liverpool in July. Henderson, who has been a staunch supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, found himself at the center of controversy due to Saudi Arabia’s strict stance on same-sex sexual activity.
Henderson has long been an advocate for LGBTQ+ causes, expressing his support for Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign in a passionate piece for the Liverpool matchday program in November 2021. His decision to join Al-Ettifaq was met with backlash from some LGBTQ+ campaigners, who questioned his commitment to the cause.
In an emotional response to the criticism, Henderson told the Athletic, “My intention was never, ever to hurt anyone. My intention has always been to help causes and communities. I do care about different causes that I’ve been involved in, and different communities… I do care. And for people to criticize and say that I’d turned my back on them really, really hurt me.”
Henderson’s move to Al-Ettifaq also raised concerns among LGBTQ+ fan groups, including Kop Outs, who urged him to “stand by your words as a professed ally & champion of #LGBT+ rights.” The group emphasized that actions speak louder than words and called for Henderson to demonstrate his commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.
Despite the challenges he faces in Saudi Arabia, Henderson remains steadfast in his support for LGBTQ+ rights. He mentioned that he would not rule out wearing rainbow laces in Saudi Arabia, as it aligns with his values, but he is also sensitive to respecting the local culture and religion.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Henderson’s move to Saudi Arabia is his reunion with former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard, who was appointed manager of Al-Ettifaq in July. Henderson’s presence in Saudi Arabia could potentially have a positive impact on the promotion of LGBTQ+ rights and values within the country.
Henderson’s departure from Liverpool, where he made 492 appearances and won numerous titles, including the Premier League and Champions League, was influenced by a desire for regular playing time. With new arrivals at the club, including Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, his position became uncertain, and he no longer felt wanted by the club.
Addressing the rumors about the financial aspect of his move, Henderson emphasized that money was not the motivation behind his decision. He stressed that throughout his career, his primary focus has always been on his love for the game and his commitment to his values.
As Henderson continues his career at Al-Ettifaq, his dedication to LGBTQ+ rights remains unwavering. He hopes that his presence in Saudi Arabia will lead to positive change and that he can continue to be a champion for causes he deeply cares about. Despite the challenges and criticism, Jordan Henderson’s commitment to both football and social causes shines brightly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jordan Henderson’s Saudi Arabia Transfer
What prompted Jordan Henderson to join Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia?
Jordan Henderson was motivated to join Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia by the prospect of contributing to the growth of the sport he loves in another country. He believed that criticizing another country from afar while ignoring opportunities to make a positive impact was not productive. His move also allowed him to reunite with former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard, who became the manager of Al-Ettifaq.
How did Jordan Henderson respond to criticism from LGBTQ+ campaigners regarding his move to Saudi Arabia?
Henderson responded to criticism by expressing his deep commitment to LGBTQ+ causes and communities. He emphasized that his intention was never to hurt anyone but to continue supporting these causes. He also stated that he had gone above and beyond to help the LGBTQ+ community and had worn rainbow laces and armbands in support. While he considered wearing rainbow laces in Saudi Arabia, he was also sensitive to respecting local culture and religion.
What led to Jordan Henderson’s departure from Liverpool?
Henderson’s departure from Liverpool was influenced by a desire for regular playing time. The arrival of new players at the club, including Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, suggested that his game time would be limited in the 2022-23 season. Henderson mentioned that he did not feel wanted by the club and, although the club did not force him to leave, he no longer felt secure in his position.
Did money play a significant role in Jordan Henderson’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia?
No, money did not play a significant role in Henderson’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia. He emphatically stated that throughout his career, money had never been a motivation for him. His primary focus has always been on his love for the game and his commitment to his values.
How has Jordan Henderson balanced his commitment to LGBTQ+ rights with the cultural and religious considerations in Saudi Arabia?
Jordan Henderson has faced a delicate balance between his commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and respecting the culture and religion of Saudi Arabia. While he has not ruled out wearing rainbow laces in Saudi Arabia, he is mindful of the potential to disrespect local customs. He has expressed a desire to be respectful of both religion and culture while continuing to support the causes he cares about.
More about Jordan Henderson’s Saudi Arabia Transfer
- Jordan Henderson’s emotional interview with the Athletic
- Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign
- Kop Outs – LGBTQ+ fan group’s response to Henderson’s move
- Steven Gerrard’s appointment as manager of Al-Ettifaq
- Jordan Henderson’s career at Liverpool
- Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr
- Al-Ittihad’s star-studded squad
- Roberto Firmino’s move after leaving Liverpool
- Neymar, Ruben Neves, and Kalidou Koulibaly playing for Al-Hilal
- Jordan Henderson’s appearance statistics for England
- Euro 2024 qualifier and friendly matches for England
1 comment
Wait, didn’t kno about Steven Gerrard in Saudi! Big move. Henderson cud really make a change there!