Revealed: Steven Gerrard’s first words after leaving Al-Ettifaq after 18 months in charge on £15m-per-year deal

Steven Gerrard has given his first statement since departing Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq.

After a brief stint in charge of Aston Villa, Gerrard became one of the highest-profile managerial additions to the Saudi Pro League when he took over at Al-Ettifaq in July 2023.

Gerrard’s arrival at the Dammam-based club was followed by several high-profile signings including Moussa Dembele, Demarai Gray and former Liverpool midfield duo Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum.

However, despite finishing sixth and agreeing an extension to his £15m-per-year contract in his maiden campaign, Gerrard’s position at the club came under increasing scrutiny following a dismal run this season.

After winning their first three league matches, in their next 11 Saudi Pro League fixtures Al-Ettifaq proceeded to secure just six points out of a possible 33.

The crisis came to a head on Thursday, with the club releasing a statement announcing that Gerrard would be departing by ‘mutual consent’.

The former England star leaves the club in the midst of a dismal run of form with just 1 league win in their last 11 games

Gerrard arrived at Al-Ettifaq in the summer of 2023 in a deal worth £15million-per-year

Despite a disappointing end to his time in charge, Gerrard insisted in a statement following his departure that working in Saudi Arabia had been a ‘positive experience’ for him and his family.

It read: ‘I want to express my gratitude to the club, the players, the fans, and everyone involved for the opportunity and the support during my time here, especially the president, Mr. Samer, CEO Mr. Hamad and the head of football committee Mr. Hatim.’

‘I express my gratitude for Mr. Samer and Mr. Hatim from the first day I was warmly welcomed, and I have enjoyed the chance 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 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.’

Al-Ettifaq currently sit 12th in the league table, just five points above the relegation zone.

Following Gerrard’s departure the club’s English language social media accounts paid tribute to the former England midfielder with a 45-second video on social media.