Brentford have completed the signing of England international and former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson on a two-year contract following his recent departure from Dutch giants Ajax.
The 35-year-old midfielder, who boasts a glittering career at both club and international level, brings vast experience and leadership to the Premier League side, who are looking to rebuild following the exits of several key players.
A Decorated Career
Henderson spent 12 years at Liverpool, where he cemented his legacy as one of the club’s great captains. During his Anfield spell, he won every major domestic and European honour, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup (2), Community Shield, UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Appointed an MBE in 2021 for services to football and charity, Henderson has also earned 84 caps for England, featuring in three World Cups and three European Championships. He was recalled to the national team in March 2025 by new manager Thomas Tuchel, marking his return after nearly a year’s absence.
Brentford Move After Eventful Stint in Europe
Henderson’s journey to Brentford comes after a brief and turbulent spell with Ajax, which followed a controversial move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq in July 2023. At the Saudi club, managed by former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard, Henderson’s stay lasted just six months before his contract was terminated.
He joined Ajax in January 2024, but despite making 30 league appearances and delivering strong individual performances, his time in Amsterdam was overshadowed by off-field incidents and the club’s failure to secure a league title. His contract was mutually terminated a year early, reportedly due to Ajax’s financial struggles, as Henderson was the club’s highest earner.
Despite the rocky spell, Henderson remained productive—he created the joint-most chances among Ajax players last season, completed the most passes and crosses, and topped combined tackles and interceptions among the club’s midfielders.
Manager Keith Andrews: “A Simple Decision”
Brentford manager Keith Andrews praised the signing, describing Henderson as “phenomenally fit” and “still hugely motivated.”
“When we became aware of Jordan’s availability, it was a pretty simple decision. He’s still phenomenally fit and phenomenally motivated to achieve even more in the game, having already achieved so much,” Andrews said.
With the departures of key figures Christian Norgaard, Mark Flekken, and Ben Mee, Andrews emphasized the need for strong leadership in the dressing room.
“What Jordan will bring is that he has been one of the most influential leaders in modern Premier League years. He’s driven standards at one of the best clubs in the world and knows what it takes to win. He’ll be a brilliant addition to this group.”
Replacing Norgaard’s Impact
Henderson will step into the void left by Christian Norgaard, a central figure in Brentford’s rise to Premier League stability. Since making his league debut in 2021, Norgaard led all players in interceptions (201), while ranking second in ball recoveries (844) and third in tackles won (189).
While Henderson may not have played as consistently over 90 minutes since his exit from Saudi Arabia, his time at Ajax showed he remains effective. His passing, creativity, and leadership will be vital as Brentford seek to maintain their competitive edge in the 2025/26 season.