Steven Gerrard leaves Al Ettifaq after 18 months

Al Ettifaq have confirmed they have parted ways with manager Steven Gerrard by mutual consent.

Gerrard moved to Saudi Arabia in July 2023 and signed a long-term contract extension in January 2024, but after finishing sixth last season, was unable to stop a miserable run of form which saw the side tumble down to 12th in the Saudi Pro League.

Reports of Gerrard's frustrations began to grow last week and Al Ettifaq have now confirmed they have reached an agreement to terminate the former Liverpool midfielder's contract.

"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."

Gerrard's first transfer window in charge saw him joined by Jordan Henderson, whose own spell in Saudi Arabia lasted just six months before he returned to Europe to join Ajax. Demarai Gray, Georginio Wijnaldum, Jack Hendry and Moussa Dembele all remain on the books.

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