Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard departs Al-Ettifaq after 18-month stay | OneFootball

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has officially left his role as manager of Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, citing personal reasons for his decision.

The former Reds captain departs after a difficult spell in charge, where results failed to meet expectations despite significant investment in the squad.

Gerrard joined Al-Ettifaq in January 2023 on a lucrative deal reportedly worth £15 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid managers in world football.

However, his tenure proved challenging, with the team struggling for consistency throughout his time in charge. Over 55 matches at the helm, Gerrard registered just 19 wins, alongside 16 draws and 20 defeats, resulting in a win rate of just 35%.

The club currently sits 12th in the Saudi Pro League, only five points clear of the relegation zone. Their most recent result, a 2-2 draw against Al-Wehda, continued a run of underwhelming performances that have left the team unable to push higher in the table.

Al-Ettifaq released a statement thanking Gerrard for his contributions, saying: “We would like to thank Steven Gerrard for the firm foundations he helped build. He changed the club for the better.”

Gerrard also issued a statement: “I want to express my gratitude to the club, the players, and the fans, especially the president, Samir Al-Misehal, and head of the football committee, Hatim Al-Misehal.”

This marks the end of another chapter in Gerrard’s managerial career, which has seen mixed fortunes. While he delivered Rangers’ first Scottish Premiership title in a decade in 2021, his spell at Aston Villa ended with his dismissal in October 2022 after winning just 13 of 40 games.

As Gerrard steps away from Al-Ettifaq, speculation will inevitably turn to whether he will seek a return to English football or take time to reflect on his next move.

The departure leaves Al-Ettifaq searching for a new head coach as they aim to stabilise their season in the Saudi Pro League.