Henderson, De Gea and Other Ex Premier League Stars Linked With January Returns

• Jordan Henderson reportedly wants a move out of Saudi Arabia
• He is struggling to adapt and would like to return to Europe
• Henderson leads other former Premier League stars eyeing a return

The Premier League is widely regarded as the top football league globally, known for its superior entertainment value and financial prosperity compared to other leagues.

It is also believed to be tough and appealing to top footballers worldwide, such that some who have left in recent times are now seeking a return to English football.

Sports Brief looks at five former stars who want a return to the English top flight as first analysed by Planet Football.

Ex Premier League stars linked with a return

1. Jordan Henderson

Per The Athletic, the former Liverpool captain risked it all to go to Saudi Arabia, but six months in, that “something that excites me” has waned, and he wants a return home or anywhere in Europe. However, it isn’t easy due to the cost of breaking away.

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2. David de Gea

Manchester United opted against renewing their loyal goalkeeper’s contract, and he was let go after 12 years. He is yet to sign for a new club despite having multiple offers. Newcastle United are said to be interested due to the long-term injury of Nick Pope, while some reports suggest the Old Trafford bosses considered him due to Andre Onana’s early struggle.

3. Nemanja Matic

Matic had previous stints at Chelsea and Manchester United before linking up with former boss Jose Mourinho at AS Roma. He left the Italian capital after one year and joined Rennes. Per L’Equipe, he wants out of the French club and the English league is said to be tempting him.

4. Roberto Firmino

Another former Liverpool star who headed for Saudi Arabia but has fallen out of love with life in the Middle East. Firmino has failed to score in his last 16 games and is keen to return to Europe, with England and Turkey his likely destinations.

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5. Jesse Lingard

Lingard has been without a club since leaving Nottingham Forest due to the expiration of his contract. He turned down Al-Ettifaq because they could not meet his wage demands. Everton is one club interested in helping him get his career back on track.

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Paul Scholes attack Lingard

Sports Brief reported on Paul Scholes’ damaging comment to Lingard after the 31-year-old shared pictures of himself on Instagram keeping fit in a gym in Dubai.

The United legend asked if he is ready to return to football or sweating it out in the gym. The comment received backlash from fans who condemned the tone of the message.