Jordan Henderson was spotted filming what appears to be a farewell message to Liverpool fans at Anfield before traveling to Saudi Arabia to meet Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq.
Henderson is ending his 12-year association with the Premier League giants after making the controversial move to the Saudi Pro League and signing a three-year deal worth around £700,000 a week.
Henderson is believed to have spoken extensively with Klopp about the playing time he will get next season and his future role in the squad. He also held talks with Gareth Southgate on how the move would affect his international future.
Shortly after those talks, Henderson decided to sign with the Saudi team and underwent a medical in Manchester on Friday afternoon. The midfielder would now wait for the paperwork to finalize the deal.
Henderson – who won seven major trophies during his time at Liverpool, including the Premier League and Champions League – said goodbye to his teammates earlier this week and was seen filming a farewell message to fans.
Henderson was seen walking the pitch alongside the Liverpool media team. The stadium was empty when the 33-year-old held his phone to his face to shoot a video.
Fans were quick to react when the video was leaked on social media. Many felt that Henderson should have been given the chance to greet Liverpool fans in person after his stellar career at the club.
One fan commented on the video saying, “Legend. I will be sad to see him go, he was a huge part of my time supporting Liverpool.’
Another wrote: ‘He has given everything for the club over the past 12 years and has made great memories with them. I’m sure it wasn’t easy for him to leave for Saudi Arabia and the decision must have been made with his family. We must thank him for his services and wish him well.’
While one said: “Regardless of last season, he deserves a decent sending off. “The absolute legend of the club and the key to our success in the Klopp era.”
Others praised him but felt it was the right time for him to leave. They said, “He was a solid captain.” He never had world-class ability, but he was a world-class athlete and exactly what we needed alongside Fabinho and Wijnaldum. However, he fell off a cliff when his legs and ability to walk began to fail.
Another agreed, saying: “It was time to leave but it hurts…” I can’t even imagine what day Klopp will leave.”
