Jurgen Klopp is still perplexed by Jordan Henderson’s criticism, even after the former Liverpool captain moved to Ajax from Saudi Arabia.

WHAT HAPPENED?In the summer of 2023, the winners of the Premier League and Champions League left Anfield to head to the Middle East in a £12 million ($15 million) agreement. He was reunited with Steven Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq as a result of the swap, but the England international faced a lot of awkward questions.

WHAT KLOPP SAID ABOUT HENDERSON

After just six months, Henderson’s new beginning came to an end when he signed with Amsterdam’s Eredivisie giants. When questioned by reporters about Henderson’s professional trajectory and those who persist in criticizing him, Klopp responded, “I didn’t speak to him after that (his transfer to Ajax).” However, I’m glad for him because, to me, that’s what matters most—that he appears to be happy. I occasionally forget that I don’t really read these kinds of things, but I do read a little bit when it doesn’t directly concern us. People have been very critical of Hendo for moving there and then returning. I’m not sure how we all manage to judge these kinds of things so frequently. We only have one life to live, and choices must be made. Additionally, there are instances when the choices we make feel different after they are made than when they were ideal from the beginning. He was present, and the encounter was incredibly fascinating.

“99% of what transpired there, in terms of football, was flawless, according to him when we spoke. It’s not like this is where it’s all beginning. Imagine it happening instantly, just like that. There are many things to come, but he was never overly critical or would have said, “It’s not possible that that doesn’t exist.” However, he later decided it would be better for him and the family to return to Europe, and as a result, he is currently at Ajax Amsterdam, a fantastic club during a trying time. When genuine skill and experience are combined, Ajax consistently plays the best football, and that is clearly Hendo’s current role. He is a member of that group of seasoned individuals, and things can only get better starting in fifth place in Holland. It’s an encounter.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Regarding transfers and new experiences, Klopp continued, “Only in England do people think, ‘Why do they go abroad?’” This is an attitude that differs greatly from anywhere else on the globe. England is a lovely country that attracts people from all over the world who want to travel and experience different cultures, and I feel the same way. He is off to Holland, where he will undoubtedly be able to enjoy football once more. The city is simply amazing; therefore, the family will feel fantastic. Though he has a few more pressing tasks to complete, I will still be happy for him, and we will speak in the coming days.

What Next for Henderson?

Henderson, a 33-year-old midfielder, has agreed to a two-and-a-half-year contract with Ajax. He is expecting to perform well enough in the Netherlands to be included in Gareth Southgate’s preparations for this summer’s Euro 2024.