Former England and Liverpool midfield icon, Steven Gerrard, has officially been appointed as the new manager of Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq. This marks a significant step in his managerial career as he seeks to make his mark in the competitive landscape of the Saudi Pro League.
Initially, Gerrard turned down the opportunity to manage Al-Ettifaq when it was first presented to him in June. However, after careful consideration, he has decided to embrace the challenge and has signed a two-year contract with the club. His decision reflects a growing trend among prominent European footballers and coaches who are now eyeing opportunities in the Middle East, drawn by the region’s increasing investment in football.
Khalid Al-Dabal, chairman of Al-Ettifaq, expressed his enthusiasm about Gerrard’s appointment, stating that his presence is expected to significantly elevate the league’s profile. “Having a figure of Gerrard’s stature in our team will undoubtedly enhance the competitive spirit of the league,” Al-Dabal remarked, highlighting the club’s ambition to improve its standing.
Last season, Al-Ettifaq finished seventh out of 16 teams in the Saudi Pro League, trailing the champions Al-Ittihad by a considerable margin. Under Gerrard’s leadership, the club aims to build a more competitive squad and challenge for higher honors in the upcoming season.
Gerrard arrives at Al-Ettifaq after a challenging spell at Aston Villa, where he was dismissed in October 2022 following a disappointing run that saw the team secure just 13 victories in 40 matches. Prior to that, he enjoyed considerable success at Scottish club Rangers, where he led the team to its first Scottish Premiership title in a decade during the 2020-21 season.
The Saudi Pro League has been making headlines for attracting high-profile players and coaches, with stars like Cristiano Ronaldo making headlines by joining various clubs in the league. This influx of talent and investment underscores Saudi Arabia’s ambition to position its football league among the world’s top five leagues.
Gerrard’s new role at Al-Ettifaq presents an exciting chapter for both the manager and the club. Fans are eager to see how he will apply his experience and tactical acumen to enhance the team’s performance and navigate the challenges of the Saudi Pro League. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Gerrard to see if he can replicate his past successes and lead Al-Ettifaq to new heights.
