Steven Gerrard has parted ways with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq, ending his 18-month tenure as manager by mutual consent, despite signing a contract extension just weeks ago that would have kept him at the club until 2027.
The former Liverpool and England midfielder, who was reportedly earning around £15 million per year as one of the world's highest-paid managers, leaves the Saudi club after a disappointing run of results. Under his leadership, Al-Ettifaq managed only five victories in 17 league matches this season, leaving them precariously positioned just five points above the relegation zone.
"Football is unpredictable and sometimes things don't go the way we want," Gerrard reflected on his departure. He expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he received and acknowledged the valuable experience gained in a different cultural setting. "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," he added.
Club president Same Al Misehal praised Gerrard's transformative impact during his stint, stating, "Sometimes things don't go as planned, but the firm foundations he helped build will guarantee a bright future in the long term." Al Misehal emphasized that the decision was made with mutual respect and in the best interest of both parties.
Gerrard's managerial journey began promisingly at Rangers in 2018, where he secured the club's first Scottish Premiership title in a decade during the 2020-21 season. His subsequent move to Aston Villa in November 2021 proved less successful, lasting only 11 months with 13 wins in 40 games before his dismissal.
At Al-Ettifaq, Gerrard initially showed promise by guiding the team to a sixth-place finish in his first season. However, his overall record at the club stands at 23 wins from 59 matches, with the team currently languishing in 12th place in the 16-team league, marking a disappointing end to his Saudi Arabian adventure.
