In a surprising turn of events, Al-Ettifaq, led by Steven Gerard, has made a strategic move in the winter transfer window. Al-Ettifaq’s ambitious project, bolstered by the likes of Jordan Henderson and Giorgino Wijnaldum, has failed to find its footing in the first half of the season. However, despite the absence of the glitz and glamour of their Saudi Pro League rivals, they are making headlines nonetheless. While Cristiano Ronaldo-led Al-Nassr basks in the spotlight, Gerrard’s team quietly swiped a player from the Portuguese’s side.

Al-Ettifaq’s latest transfer activity has now reignited the winter transfer market. With Jordan Henderson’s exit speculations gaining intensity, Steven Gerard & Co. will need reinforcements to stabilize the squad. Let’s uncover the latest addition to the Al-Ettifaq squad.

A Cristiano Ronaldo Connection: Al-Ettifaq’s strategic move

Rather than opting for a high-profile foreign signing, Steven Gerard’s Al-Ettifaq has successfully secured the services of Al-Nassr’s center-back, Abdullah Madu. The 30-year-old center-back, who played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, found himself sidelined under boss Luis Castro’s plans. Al-Ettifaq, recognizing the experience and value of the Saudi Arabian international, has successfully negotiated a loan deal until the end of the season.

Abdullah Madu was a long-standing target for Steven Gerard, as the manager requested personally to the management for his acquisition. The 30-year-old defender, who has been at Al-Nassr since 2013, has found himself out of favor by Luis Castro this season. Having only played eight games for Al-Nassr, Madu was eager to find minutes on the pitch again.

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The transfer is done and dusted, but the final figures are not revealed yet. Abdullah Madu had his farewell with the administrative staff and players after the end of the training session yesterday and is preparing to move and join his new colleagues at the Al-Ettifaq training ground. Notably, the move further signifies Steven Gerrard and Al-Ettifaq’s determination to rectify their season.

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Jordan Henderson’s imminent exit

As Al-Ettifaq takes a calculated step towards defensive reinforcement, the potential departure of Jordan Henderson looms on the club’s head. The English midfielder, who made headlines with his move to the Middle East last summer, is on the verge of bidding farewell. According to reports from The Athletic, Ajax emerges as the likely destination for Henderson, marking a significant transition for the seasoned midfielder. Moreover, the impending move will involve no transfer fee, as it underlines Henderson’s desire to resume his European career after a brief stint in Saudi.

On the other hand, Abdullah Madu’s arrival will ignite more hope among the squad as they prepare for the second half of the season. Can Al-Ettifaq emerge as a formidable force in the Saudi Pro League again? Only time will tell. All eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo when the Saudi Pro League resumes again.

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