Scotland v Belarus 2026 FIFA World Cup, WM, Weltmeisterschaft, Fussball Qualifiers Andy Robertson of Scotland during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Group C match at Hampden Park, Glasgow UK Newspapers OUT Copyright: xFredxPalmerx FIL-22351-0159
Jack Hendry has confirmed he plans to settle his club future before the World Cup begins, with the defender fielding a flood of offers from around the world.
The 31-year-old is out of contract at Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq this summer after spending three years with the club.
Hendry has previously played in Australia, Belgium and Italy, and is eager to continue broadening his horizons on the international football scene.
Despite being available as a free agent, the former Celtic centre-back says he will not be returning to Scotland at this stage of his career.
The defender acknowledged the interest he has attracted has been greater than expected, with clubs from multiple countries registering their intention to sign him.
He said: “I’ve been pleasantly surprised. When some players go out of contract it can go quite quiet but it’s been quite busy for myself and I’ll probably make my decision before the start of the tournament.”
Hendry was clear when asked about the prospect of returning to Scottish football, stating: “Can I see a return to Scotland? No, not just now.”
He added: “I’m not slamming the Scottish leagues, as such, and it might happen towards the end of my career. But at this moment in time, no. I just think I can play at a higher level.”
The defender outlined that European football remains an ambition, saying: “Obviously, you have the top teams in the league who play in Europe and that would be an aspiration of mine if I came back to Europe. That would need to be key, I would need to be playing in Europe.”
Hendry has not closed the door on remaining in Saudi Arabia, where he says the experience has been hugely positive for both himself and his family.
He said: “There’s also Saudi Arabia and I don’t think the book’s closed there as such. It’s been amazing for me. The country has been great for me and my family.”
The defender backed the Saudi Pro League as a competition that will only grow in stature, pointing to the country’s hosting of the 2034 World Cup as a major driver of development.
Hendry is competing for a starting position in Scotland’s World Cup opener against Haiti, and reflected positively on the culture of Scottish players seeking opportunities abroad.
He said: “We have shown we can go abroad, compete and do well. Teams are looking at Scottish players where maybe before they were turning their nose up at them.”
About the Author
