Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard is reportedly on the brink of dismissal from his managerial position at Saudi Arabian club Al Ettifaq following a string of disappointing results and his admission of prioritizing Liverpool games over his current team’s training sessions.
At 44, Gerrard’s reputation in management has already been shaken by his difficult experience at Aston Villa, and his tenure in the Saudi Pro League appears to have brought similar struggles.
During his time in England, Gerrard’s managerial record at Aston Villa was marked by challenges, yet he still retained support from some in the football world. Despite his struggles in the Premier League, former English manager Harry Redknapp had even suggested him as a potential candidate for the England national team job.
However, the role eventually went to German coach Thomas Tuchel. Nevertheless, the endorsement illustrated the regard some in the football community still have for Gerrard, despite his mixed results on the sidelines.
In the Saudi Pro League—currently ranked 72nd in the world by TeamForm—Gerrard’s Al Ettifaq side has faced issues similar to those seen during his time in England.
Last season, Al Ettifaq finished sixth, trailing far behind league leaders Al Hilal with only half the points of the champions, as reported by TNT Sports.
In the current season, Gerrard’s team has managed just three wins out of eight games, positioning them 10th in the league standings with 11 points, a significant 13 points behind top-placed Al Hilal. The team has not recorded a victory in their last five outings, intensifying the pressure on Gerrard and his position as head coach.
Adding to his troubles, Gerrard admitted to structuring his training schedule around Liverpool matches, a statement he made on RedmenTV, which has reportedly concerned the club’s officials.
This candid confession may be the breaking point for the Al Ettifaq leadership, especially as they look for commitment and focus in achieving competitive results. The Sun reports that this decline in form and questionable prioritization could lead to Gerrard’s imminent departure from the club.
In addition to the reputational damage, Gerrard risks losing a substantial financial contract reportedly valued at £15.2 million per year. A dismissal under such circumstances would not only cost him his current role but could also significantly impact his standing in the management world.
If Gerrard is indeed dismissed, it will serve as yet another setback in his challenging journey to establish himself as a credible football manager outside of his successful playing career.
