Former Germany footballer Thomas Hitzlsperger Criticizes Jordan Henderson’s Move to Saudi Arabia and Questions his LGBTQ+ Ally “Brand”
In the wake of Jordan Henderson’s move to the Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq, former German footballer Thomas Hitzlsperger has voiced his criticism, stating that Henderson’s image as an ally of the LGBTQ+ community is now tarnished.
Henderson, known for his vocal support of the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and inclusivity in football, recently left Liverpool after a 12-year stint to join the Saudi Pro League club. The 33-year-old signed a lucrative three-year contract worth £700,000 a week, making a move that has drawn significant attention and scrutiny.
Hitzlsperger, who publicly came out as gay in 2014 after retiring from professional football, expressed his dismay over Henderson’s decision to join a country where homosexuality is illegal and carries severe penalties, including the death penalty.
Taking to social media, Hitzlsperger commented, “So Jordan Henderson finally gets his move to Saudi Arabia. Fair play to him, he can play wherever he wants to play. Curious to know though what the new brand JH will look like. The old one is dead! I did believe for a while that his support for the [rainbow emoji] community would be genuine. Silly me.”
The move has sparked controversy, particularly due to Henderson’s past advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. His support for the community was evident through his use of rainbow armbands during matches. However, in the video montage announcing his signing with Al-Ettifaq, the rainbow armband was edited to appear in black and white.
Other male footballers have also made high-profile moves to Saudi Pro League clubs this summer. However, Henderson’s situation has garnered the most criticism, raising questions about the authenticity of his support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Liverpool’s official LGBT+ fans group, Kop Outs, has even questioned whether Henderson was truly an ally. Additionally, Liverpool’s club supporters’ board, representing various fan groups, including Kop Outs and the women’s supporters’ club, expressed disappointment and concern over the move. The board’s statement emphasized its commitment to inclusivity and support for all fans, regardless of identity or background.
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