Steven Gerrard joins Saudi league as Al Ettifaq manager

Steven Gerrard's surprise move to Al Ettifaq in Saudi Arabian football: Ambitious venture or financial pursuit?

Liverpool and England legend Steven Gerrard has joined Saudi club Al Ettifaq following his sack at Aston Villa. (Photo credit: Sky Sports)

Former Liverpool and England football legend Steven Gerrard has made headlines once again with his recent move to Al Ettifaq in the Saudi Arabian football league.

The 42-year-old has embarked on a new chapter in his illustrious football career by accepting the role of head coach at the Saudi Arabian football club. 

Gerrard's decision has surprised many fans and pundits alike, but it undoubtedly presents him with a unique opportunity to leave a lasting impact on the sport in a different part of the world.

Steven Gerrard's move to Saudi Arabia marks a bold step for the Liverpool legend. 

After retiring from professional football in 2016, Gerrard quickly transitioned into a managerial role.

H e took charge of the Liverpool Under-18 team before being appointed as the first-team manager for Scottish giants Rangers FC.

During his time at Rangers, Gerrard enjoyed tremendous success, leading the club to their first Scottish Premiership title in a decade in the 2020–2021 season. 

His achievements garnered attention from clubs around the globe, leading to this unexpected move to the Middle East.

By accepting the head coach position at Al Ettifaq, Gerrard faces a unique set of challenges and opportunities. 

The Saudi Arabian football landscape has been growing in prominence and ambition in recent years, with significant investments made in the sport.

The country's Vision 2030 plan aims to develop football at various levels, including infrastructure, youth development, and attracting world-class talent. 

Gerrard's arrival is a testament to the country's ambition to elevate its football standards and make a mark on the international stage.

Steven Gerrard joins the money-spinning league on the back of a difficult career at Aston Villa.

He was fired last October and his successor, Unai Emery, took the beleaguered team he left behind as high as seventh on the Premier League log earning the Europa League ticket.

All eyes are on Gerrard, with questions on whether his move was premised on the financial returns or on an opportunity for him to retell his own story as a coach and then springboard into a bigger role in Europe, but one thing is certain: the respect he craves won’t come from his reigns at the Saudi club.