Steven Gerrard has parted ways with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq, officially ending his 18-month stint as head coach.
The 44-year-old former Liverpool captain and manager of the club, whose tenure was marked by fluctuating results, requested his departure this week, with the club confirming the mutual decision. Al-Ettifaq issued a statement on Tuesday, noting that the split was amicable.
“Al-Ettifaq Football Club and Steven Gerrard have today mutually agreed to part company,” the statement read. “This decision follows an amicable conclusion to the relationship with the manager.”
Reflecting on his time at the club, Gerrard expressed gratitude for the opportunity but acknowledged the challenges he faced. “Football is unpredictable, and sometimes things don’t go the way we want,” Gerrard said. “I want to express my gratitude to the club, players, fans, and everyone involved, especially the president, Mr. Samer, and the head of the football committee, Mr. Hatim, for their support.”
Gerrard, who took the reins at Al-Ettifaq in July 2023, signed a new contract just six months ago, but his record over 55 games—19 wins, 16 draws, and 20 defeats—saw the team struggle in the competitive Saudi Pro League. Despite the results, Gerrard remains optimistic about the future of the club, stating, “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.”
Prior to joining Al-Ettifaq, Gerrard managed Aston Villa in the Premier League for 11 months, following a successful spell with Rangers in Scotland. Though his time in Saudi Arabia didn’t meet expectations, Gerrard’s departure marks the end of a chapter in his coaching career as he prepares for new challenges ahead.
