Jordan Henderson was pictured meeting Mohamed Salah at a London restaurant this week, and the former Liverpool captain has already expressed his views regarding the Egyptian's potential switch to Saudi Arabia. Salah was omitted from Liverpool's Champions League squad in midweek against Inter Milan following his public criticism of manager Arne Slot.
This has sparked speculation that the forward might depart Anfield in January, with a transfer to the Middle East being discussed. Henderson departed Anfield for a lucrative deal with Saudi outfit Al-Ettifaq in 2023, positioning him perfectly to advise Salah on the move. All indications suggest he would encourage his former team-mate to make the switch, given his previous positive comments about the winger making such a transition. In an interview with The Athletic two years prior, he said: "I don't really know exactly what's going on. I just see what's being said in the media in terms of the bids going in and things like that.
"He'll have a big impact - whether that's at Liverpool or in the Saudi League. Whether that's now, in the future or whenever it may be. He's a fantastic addition to any team."
Henderson's stint in the Middle East lasted only five months, during which time he made 19 appearances, before returning to Europe with Ajax. He faced significant backlash from LGBTQ+ activists regarding the nation's stance on same-sex relationships, having previously championed LGBTQ+ causes.
Salah signed a fresh two-year contract in April, making the Saudi Pro League his most probable next stop. The league's chief Omar Mugharbel recently stated that "Salah is welcome".
Liverpool's hierarchy are still mulling over how to deal with his outburst. Ex-Egypt star Mido has urged Salah to make the move to Saudi. Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: "I've been in this situation before.
"When the Liverpool game is on, all of Egypt are there in front of the TV waiting for Salah to play, waiting for him to score a goal. They all feel that their son is playing today in the best league in the world. They are proud of him. This puts him under so much pressure to play and to be involved.
"He's not a regular guy. He's the king here in Egypt. People have to understand that. It was the same for me when I was playing for Tottenham, for example. All of Egypt was waiting for the game.
"All of Egypt were sitting there in the coffee shops waiting for me to play today. They were proud of me. They are proud of Salah. And this puts you under pressure. I've been in this situation."
He added: "I think he should leave. I think it's time for him to leave. If you lose this confidence with the manager, it's hard to be fixed. But if he leaves, he must leave from the big door, if you know what I mean. He's done so much for Liverpool. He's a legend."