Steven Gerrard leaves Al-Ettifaq after 18 months in charge
Steven Gerrard has parted ways with Al-Ettifaq after 18 months as head coach, with the decision made by mutual consent.
Gerrard, who took charge of the Saudi Arabian club in July 2023, had signed a two-year contract extension in January 2024, which was set to keep him at the club until 2027.
However, under his leadership, Al-Ettifaq has secured only five wins from their 17 league matches this season, leaving them five points above the relegation zone.
“Football is unpredictable and sometimes things don’t go the way we want,” said Gerrard.
“However, I leave with great respect for the club and the country. I have no doubt that the work being done will bring success in the future and I wish the team the very best for the rest of the season.
“From the first day I was warmly welcomed and I have enjoyed the chance to work in a new country with a different culture.”
Ettifaq club president, Same Al Misehal, said Gerrard transformed the club during his year-and-a-half in charge.
“Sometimes things don’t go as planned, but the firm foundations he helped build will guarantee a bright future in the long term,” he said.
“He changed the club for the better and that will never be forgotten. This decision, made with mutual respect and in agreement is in the best interest of both Steven and the club as we move forward.”
After a distinguished playing career with Liverpool and England, Steven Gerrard, 44, transitioned into management in 2018 with Rangers, where he led the club to its first Scottish Premiership title in a decade during the 2020-21 season.
Gerrard later succeeded Dean Smith as Aston Villa’s manager in November 2021 but was dismissed after 11 months, having secured just 13 wins from 40 games.
In his first season at Al-Ettifaq, Gerrard guided the Saudi club to a respectable sixth-place finish. However, his tenure ends with the team sitting 12th in a 16-team league, with only five wins from 17 matches this season. Over the course of his 59 games at the helm, Gerrard won 23 matches.
During his time in Saudi Arabia, Gerrard was reportedly one of the highest-paid managers in world football, earning approximately £15 million annually.
More to follow.