Steven Gerrard Leaves Al Ettikaq Manager Chair

Steven Gerrard finished being with Al Ettikaq in the Saudi Arabian Pro League (Instagram/@ettifaq).

JAKARTA - Steven Gerrard has left his post as manager of Saudi Arabia's Pro-League club, Al Ettikaq, after 18 months of struggling in the lower half of the standings.

The Liverpool legend joined Al Ettikaq in July 2023, but failed to prove himself a true competitor to the title of the Saudi Arabian Pro League.

Last season, Al Ethtikaq finished sixth, but trailed 48 points from defending champion Al Hilal.

Al Ettikaq this season are in 12th place after winning just five of their 17 opening games.

Gerrard and the club also reached a mutual agreement to end their work relationship.

"First and foremost, we express our sincere gratitude to Steven for his dedication and hard work with the club."

"Sometimes things don't go according to plan, but the solid foundation he helps build will guarantee a bright future in the long term."

"He changed the club for the better. It will never be forgotten. This decision, made with mutual respect and agreement, is in the best interest of Steven and the club as we move forward," said Al Ettifaq President Samer Al Miselal in an official statement.

Gerrard, 44, entered the middle of Al Ettikaq's ambitions and the Saudi Arabian Pro League in general.

Previously, another mainstay player of Anfield, Jordan Henderson, only lasted six months at Al Ettikaq after being recruited in July 2023. He then decided to terminate his contract and join Ajax Amsterdam in January 2024.

"I would like to thank the club, the players, the fans, and everyone involved for the opportunity and support as long as I am here, especially President Al Ettikaq, Mr. Samer, CEO Mr. Hamad, and head of the Tuan Hatim football committee."

"I would like to thank Mr. Samer and Mr. Hatim since the first day I was warmly welcomed."

"I enjoy working in a new country with different cultures. So, overall I have learned a lot. This is a positive experience for my personal and family as well," Gerrard said.

"However, football is unpredictable, and sometimes things don't go the way we want them to."

"I leave the club with great respect to the club and the country. I have no doubt that the work done will bring success to the future."

"I wish the team all the best for the rest of the season," said the former Liverpool captain.

Gerrard, who signed a contract extension until 2027 in January 2024, led his final 2-2 draw at Al Wehda on Sunday, January 26, 2025, with Abdullah Madu saving a point with an equalizer in the 93rd minute.

The departure of the former England international means he will seek his fourth role as head coach, after training Rangers and Aston Villa before moving to Saudi Arabia.