Steven Gerrard leaves Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq

Steven Gerrard’s tenure as Al-Ettifaq manager is coming to an end, with the Liverpool legend asking to leave the Saudi Arabian club due to personal reasons.

This development is expected to be finalized imminently, marking the end of Gerrard’s 18-month spell in the Saudi Pro League.

Gerrard joined Al-Ettifaq in July 2023, after being sacked by Premier League side, Aston Villa, nine months prior.

During his time at the club, he signed several high-profile players, including Jordan Henderson, Moussa Dembele, Georginio Wijnaldum, and Demarai Gray.

Despite these signings, the team has struggled to find consistency, winning only two of their last 14 games.

Gerrard’s assistant manager, Michael Beale, who joined the club in November, is also set to leave.

Beale previously worked under Gerrard at Rangers and had spoken highly of his former boss’s coaching abilities.

Al-Ettifaq is respectful of Gerrard’s decision and is finalizing an exit package.

The club has two potential replacements in mind: former player and manager Saad Al-Shehri and Bahrain coach Dragan Talajić.

Gerrard’s departure from Al-Ettifaq may not be the end of his relationship with Saudi Arabian football, as he could be open to a role in football development in the Middle East.

His future plans are uncertain, but speculation is already swirling about potential future managerial positions.

About Al-Ettifaq

Al-Ettifaq FC, was founded in 1944 in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

The club’s name, “Al-Ettifaq,” translates to “The Cooperation” in English.

Al-Ettifaq was established by a group of young men from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.

The club experienced significant domestic success during the 1970s and 1980s, winning several Saudi Premier League titles and King’s Cups.

The club participated in various Asian competitions, including the Asian Club Championship and the AFC Champions League.

Al-Ettifaq has continued to compete in the Saudi Pro League, with some fluctuations in performance.

The club has also invested in youth development programs and infrastructure improvements.

Al-Ettifaq has won several domestic and international titles, including two Saudi Premier League titles, two King’s Cups, one Crown Prince Cup, one AFC Champions League title in 1984, and one Arab Club Champions Cup in 2004.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook