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Steven Gerrard leaves Al Ettifaq After Disappointing Run in 18 months
Saudi Pro League club Al Ettifaq have officially confirmed the departure of their manager, Steven Gerrard, by mutual consent following a challenging campaign.
Gerrard, who took charge of the club in July 2023, initially signed a long-term contract extension in January 2024. However, despite leading Al-Ettifaq to a sixth-place finish last season, the team’s poor run of form this term saw them drop to 12th in the league standings, ultimately leading to his exit.
Reports of Gerrard’s growing frustrations had surfaced in recent weeks, and the club has now reached an agreement to terminate his contract.
Expressing his appreciation for his time at the club, the former Liverpool captain said: “I want to express my gratitude to the club, the players, the fans and everyone involved for the opportunity and the support during my time here, especially the president, Mr. Samer, CEO Mr. Hamad and the head of the football committee Mr. Hatim.
“I express my gratitude for Mr. Samer and Mr. Hatim from the first day I was warmly welcomed and I have enjoyed to work in a new country with a different culture. So overall I have learnt a lot and it’s been a positive experience personally and for my family as well.
“But football is unpredictable, and sometimes things don’t go the way we want. However, I leave with the 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.”
During his tenure, Gerrard oversaw several high-profile signings, including former Liverpool teammate Jordan Henderson, whose stint in Saudi Arabia was short-lived as he left for Ajax after just six months.
Other notable arrivals such as Demarai Gray, Georginio Wijnaldum, Jack Hendry, and Moussa Dembélé remain with the club.
With Gerrard’s departure, Al Ettifaq will now look to appoint a new manager to stabilize their season and push for better results in the Saudi Pro League.