Ajax skipper Jordan Henderson takes aim at Dutch media following transfer turmoil

Jordan Henderson (34) has taken aim at the Dutch press following a week of intense speculation regarding his future as a former England international.

Last week, Henderson was thrust into the limelight when AS Monaco reportedly made an offer for the 81-time capped English midfielder, igniting a flurry of transfer talk.

This saga unfolded on the same day Ajax faced Galatasaray in their final Europa League group stage match. Just prior to kick-off, Henderson chose to pass the captain’s armband to goalkeeper Remko Pasveer, citing uncertainty over his playing time at Ajax.

“What has been said and written about this is 99 per cent rubbish,” an incensed Henderson declared in the press area of the Johan Cruijff ArenA after Ajax’s 2-1 victory over Feyenoord.

“I wasn’t myself last Thursday; I was emotional, but there should be no doubt about my professionalism.

“I have family, friends, a wife, and children. It’s disheartening to see such things published.”

The former Liverpool captain specifically directed his ire at Mike Verweij, a journalist from De Telegraaf, who initially reported on Henderson’s transfer request and later claimed he had decided to stay at Ajax.

Unprofessional Accusations

Henderson referenced Ajax’s financial challenges as a factor behind the club’s discussions with AS Monaco, noting that he is one of the top earners during a financially strained period for the club.

“People keep bringing up my salary,” he said. “Then a potential solution is presented, and suddenly I’m labelled as unprofessional.”

He faced backlash for allegedly not celebrating Kian Fitz-Jim’s second goal against Galatasaray and for skipping the team’s post-match lap around the stadium.

“That’s simply not fair. Right after the game and the following day, I met with Ajax’s management. We agreed that staying at Ajax was the best course of action for all involved. I’m very pleased with that outcome.”

Henderson made his move to Ajax in January 2024 after a stint with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq, and he is contracted with Ajax until the summer of 2026.