Former Liverpool captain, Steven Gerrard, and Saudi team Al-Ettifaq have decided to part ways mutually after Gerrard served as the team’s coach for 18 months.
Al-Ettifaq club announced the decision in a statement on Thursday, stating, “Ettifaq football club and Steven Gerrard have mutually agreed to part company.”
Gerrard took over as manager in the summer of 2023 and extended his contract until 2027 just a year ago.
In the previous season, Al-Ettifaq finished sixth in the league, but Gerrard leaves with the team currently in 12th place in the Saudi Pro League, having lost eight out of 17 matches.
During his tenure, Gerrard managed 59 matches in various competitions, with only 23 wins.
Gerrard expressed his gratitude, stating, “From the first day, I was warmly welcomed, and I have appreciated the opportunity to work in a new country with a different culture. Overall, I have gained valuable experience both personally and for my family.”
He added, “But football is unpredictable, and sometimes things do not go as planned.”