Kops Out, the official LGBT+ Fans Group of Liverpool, has issued a statement expressing their disapproval of the potential transfer of Reds' captain Jordan Henderson to Saudi Arabia. Although Liverpool has not received an official bid for their captain, reports suggest that they would demand £10m for his sale. Al Ettifaq, managed by Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, has offered the 33-year-old midfielder a contract worth £700k per week and it is believed that Henderson is leaning towards accepting the offer.
Also Read: Paul Pogba receives 100 million euro contract offer from Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli: Reports
However, if Henderson were to make such a move, it would not be without controversy. Following the footsteps of players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Roberto Firmino, and Ruben Neves in relocating to Saudi Arabia, the 33-year-old would face heightened scrutiny due to his position as an LGBTQI+ ambassador in European football.
Homosexuality is illegal in Saudi Arabia, and the monarchy has come under harsh international condemnation for violating the human rights of sexual minorities in the past. In response to these transfer speculations, Kops Out has taken to Twitter to release a statement, urging Henderson not to proceed with the move. Additionally, they express their disappointment towards Gerrard for taking up the role of Al Ettifaq manager.
Saudi Spending In Hundreds of Millions In Effort to Push World Cup Bid
Saudi Arabia has been spending hundreds of millions of euros to improve the visibility and appeal of their domestic league. Major incomings include Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. The monarchy recently bought out the biggest clubs in the country and has been financing them to allow marquee signings.
Also Read: Fans imitate Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘Siuuu’ during a wedding in Saudi; video goes viral
Critics have complained that the Saudi League is artificially growing their appeal and hasn’t invested much into the grassroots level to improve Saudi Arabian football. They also accuse the country of sportswashing by improving their country’s negative reputation on the international stage by investing in sports.
