Teammates at Liverpool for 6 Years, Jordan Henderson Snubs Sadio Mane’s Handshake Before Saudi League Clash

Soccer has always been a sport filled with fascinating stories of friendship and rivalry. With every transfer window, teammates transition into opponents, and the dynamics is an intriguing aspect that fans look forward to. This time, the tables have turned for former Liverpool teammates, Jordan Henderson and Sadio Mane in Saudi Arabia. However, the incident that left many surprised is how Henderson snubbed Mane’s handshake before their clash.

Both former members of Liverpool’s successful team have been influential figures. Although their path eventually diverged in 2022, this year both decided to move to Saudi Arabia as part of the European exodus. Sadio Mane joined Al Nassr, a team that has the privilege of having Cristiano Ronaldo in its ranks. Meanwhile, Henderson embarked on a new journey with Al Ettifaq.

Sadio Mane’s awkward interaction with Jordan Henderson

The stage was set for the ex-teammate’s first meeting in the Saudi Pro League season, as Al Nassr faced off against Al Ettifaq on August 14th. Naturally, there was immense anticipation for this clash. Sadio Mane, leading the Al-Nassr side in the absence of an injured Ronaldo, was expected to showcase his skills and captaincy.

On the other hand, Henderson took up the captain’s role for Al-Ettifaq. Before the match kicked off, customary greetings took place between the teams. It was during this exchange that fans noticed an awkward interaction between Mane and Henderson.

In a video that quickly went viral, both players initially engaged in the customary handshake. Mane, seemingly attempting to display affection as friends often do, went in for a hug but received a cold shoulder in return.

To everyone’s surprise, the Englishman awkwardly backed off, leaving the Senegalese star momentarily upset before he moved along the line. This incident garnered significant attention, with speculations arising on the possible reasons behind Henderson’s actions. Given their shared history as loyal teammates, it was unexpected for Henderson to reject Mane’s gesture of friendship. The two of them shared a long spell playing for a Jurgen Klopp-managed Liverpool.

They played together for six years after Sadio Mane joined Liverpool in 2016. Mane played under Henderson’s captaincy until he left for Bayern Munich in 2022. Now, he is playing his part in Saudi Arabia, and his decision to join the league might not align with what many would anticipate.

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The reason behind Sadio Mane’s decision to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo

Sadio Mane agreed to a salary of approximately $42,700,000 per year with his Al Nassr move. Some individuals may believe that this significant financial incentive influenced his choice to join the Saudi Arabian team. Others may even theorize that Ronaldo’s influence is the reason that paved the way for other top players to join Saudi clubs. However, the main motive behind Mane’s decision is rather personal.

In his statement, the 31-year-old explained that his family provided their full support. Mane shared, “My family encouraged me to come to Saudi Arabia, especially since it is a Muslim country. My mother was very happy and insisted that I chose Al-Nassr.”

Now, the star winger is enjoying his time in the Middle East and has so far scored 5 goals in SPL. What did you make of the awkward interaction between Mane and Henderson? Let us know in the comments.

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