Jordan Henderson has officially ended his time at Brentford after spending one season with the Premier League club. The experienced midfielder joined the Bees on a free transfer from Ajax in July 2025 and featured 34 times across all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign.

In a farewell message, Henderson thanked the club, teammates and supporters for their backing throughout his stay. “I leave Brentford with a lot of gratitude for the opportunity the club gave me, and for the support and care shown to me and my family from day one. Coming back to the Premier League was really important to me, and Brentford gave me that chance. I’ll always be thankful for that,” he said.

“I hope I was able to play my part in helping the team through an important period for the club. We achieved a lot together last season, and it’s something everyone involved should be proud of.”

“Brentford is a special football club. It’s ambitious, progressive and full of good people. From the owners and leadership, to the coaching staff, the players and everyone behind the scenes, it’s been a privilege to be part of it.”

“Most of all, I’d like to thank the supporters. Their backing never wavered, and their connection with the club is clear to see. They care deeply about Brentford and they support the team in the right way every step of the journey.”

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“Finally, thank you to Matt, Phil, Lee and Keith, every member of staff, and all my team-mates. It’s been a pleasure to work alongside you, and I’ll look back on my time at Brentford with a lot of pride and some great memories,” he added.

Henderson’s impact at Brentford

The former Liverpool captain made his Brentford debut against Nottingham Forest before making his first start in a 1-0 home win over Aston Villa. His performances earned him the club’s Player of the Month award for September after he started all three Premier League matches and registered assists against Chelsea and Manchester United.

Henderson scored his only goal for Brentford in a 1-1 draw against Leeds United in December, finishing a cross from Rico Henry.

After returning from injury late in the season, he started against Liverpool on the final day as Brentford secured a 1-1 draw at Anfield to finish ninth in the Premier League.

World Cup milestone and Brentford’s tribute

Henderson was also included in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During the tournament, he became the first England men’s player to appear at seven major international tournaments as the Three Lions finished third. Brentford explained that Henderson’s signing had always been part of a short-term plan.

“The plan we agreed at the time was for Jordan to add his experience to the team and help the club achieve a good Premier League finish. In return, the club committed to helping Jordan get into the England squad for the World Cup while remaining an elite Premier League midfielder. All of those targets were achieved.”

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“We also agreed that we would sit down after the World Cup and decide what the targets would be for both the club and Jordan in the second year of the contract. Following those conversations, it was clear that Jordan’s preference was to try something different in the final years of his playing career. We had always said to him that, should that be the case, we would not stand in his way,” Henderson said.

“He therefore leaves after a very successful season, both personally and collectively, with the best wishes and gratitude of myself and everyone at Brentford.”

Brentford head coach Keith Andrews also praised the midfielder’s contribution. “Following the departure of our club captain Christian Nørgaard to Arsenal, and with Vitaly Janelt not fit enough to start the season, Jordan was a really important signing for us because he added elite-level experience,” he concluded.

FAQs

Why did Jordan Henderson leave Brentford?

Henderson left Brentford after deciding to pursue a new challenge in the final years of his playing career following discussions with the club.

How did Jordan Henderson perform at Brentford?

Henderson made 34 appearances, scored once, provided key assists, won the club’s September Player of the Month award and helped Brentford finish ninth in the Premier League.