Jordan Henderson’s time in Amsterdam is coming to a quiet, early end. According to De Telegraaf, the former Liverpool captain has officially parted ways with Ajax after bidding farewell to his teammates at the club’s pre-season training camp in Zeist. The decision, sources suggest, stems from financial reasons rather than form or fitness.
Signed in January to bring leadership and experience to a young Ajax squad struggling with identity and direction, Henderson’s arrival was seen as a bold midseason move. But with Ajax now tightening their budget and focusing on sustainable squad building, the 34-year-old’s high wages reportedly became too heavy a burden. While his contract was initially set to run through the 2024–25 season, both parties agreed to cut ties a year early.
Henderson’s time at Ajax might not have had the long-term impact either side envisioned, but the midfielder’s influence in the dressing room was appreciated. Still, with Ajax aiming to restructure and invest in younger talent, the former England international’s exit clears significant financial space.
Attention now turns to what’s next for the seasoned midfielder. One of the more intriguing links is a return to Sunderland, the club where Henderson’s professional journey began. Having just secured promotion back to the Premier League, the Black Cats could offer him both sentiment and a chance to mentor a youthful squad on the rise. Though no formal approach has been confirmed, the move would be as symbolic as it would be strategic.
Wherever Henderson lands next, his departure from Ajax is a clear sign of the club’s shift toward financial recalibration and long-term planning. For the player himself, the door remains open for a Premier League return, potentially adding another chapter to a career that’s already spanned some of English football’s biggest stages.
