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Steven Gerrard: Al Ettifaq manager leaves role at Saudi Pro League side by mutual consent

Steven Gerrard: Al Ettifaq manager leaves role at Saudi Pro League side by mutual consent

Baku, January 30, AZERTAC

Steven Gerrard leaves his role as Al Ettifaq manager by mutual consent; the ex-Liverpool and England midfielder departs after 18 months in charge of the Saudi Arabian club; Al Ettifaq 12th in the Saudi Pro League, just five points above the relegation zone after only five wins this season.

According to Sky Sports, Steven Gerrard has left his role as head coach of Al Ettifaq by mutual consent after 18 months in charge of the Saudi Arabian club.

Ex-Liverpool and England midfielder Gerrard, who joined Al Ettifaq in July 2023, signed a two-year contract extension in January 2024 that was due to keep him at the club until 2027.

But the 44-year-old leaves the role with Al Ettifaq sitting 12th in the 18-team Saudi Pro League, just five points above the relegation zone.

Gerrard 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.

"From the first day, I was warmly welcomed, and I have enjoyed the chance to work in a new country with a different culture. Overall, I have learned 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 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."

Club president Samer Al Misheal said: "First and foremost, we extend our sincere gratitude to Steven for his dedication and hard work during his time with the club. Sometimes things don't go as planned, but the firm foundations he helped build will guarantee a bright future in the long term.

"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."

Al Ettifaq have won just five of their 17 league games this season under the ex-Rangers boss, most recently drawing 2-2 with second-bottom side Al Wehda FC.

Gerrard guided Al Ettifaq to a sixth-placed finish in his first season in charge but this campaign the team have struggled after winning just twice in their last 14 league games.

Al Ettifaq backed Gerrard's arrival with the signings of Jordan Henderson, Georginio Wijnaldum and Demarai Gray.

But ex-Liverpool captain Henderson departed the club to join Dutch giants Ajax after less than six months.

Now Gerrard exits the club, bringing an end to his third managerial job since retiring from playing in 2016.

Gerrard guided Rangers to their first Scottish Premiership title in 10 years in 2021 and then became Aston Villa manager in November 2021 but was dismissed after just 13 wins from 40 games.

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