The former captain of Liverpool and England joined the wave of departures from European football to the Middle East by taking on the role at Al-Ettifaq. His tenure has been challenging, marked by only seven victories in 19 games. Struggling to rebuild his coaching reputation after an unsuccessful 11-month stint with Aston Villa in the Premier League, Steven Gerrard faces an uphill battle.
Despite past triumphs at Rangers in Scotland, where he celebrated title victories, his achievements there are fading into the background. Nevertheless, Gerrard has time on his side to secure more opportunities back home while making a statement in Saudi Arabia and benefiting financially.
Robbie Fowler, Gerrard’s former teammate at Anfield, discussed Gerrard’s motivations for moving to the Middle East and what lies ahead on the Up Front with Simon Jordan podcast. Fowler expressed confidence in Gerrard’s managerial potential, acknowledging his struggles at Aston Villa and the importance of succeeding in Saudi Arabia. He emphasized Gerrard’s chance to rediscover his managerial prowess, comparing it to his successful tenure at Rangers. Fowler highlighted Gerrard’s exceptional understanding of the game and suggested that Gerrard views this move as an opportunity. Money plays a role, but Fowler believes Gerrard’s focus is on the present rather than a return to the Premier League.
Gerrard’s time at Villa spanned just 40 games, and since his departure, Unai Emery has steered the team toward potential Premier League contention. Joining Al-Ettifaq on a contract reportedly worth £15 million ($19m) annually, Gerrard now manages players like Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum.
Al Ittifaq performance and stats
Al Ittifaq is currently 8th in the Pro League with 24 points.
In the last 17 games, it has won 6 times, drawn 6 times, and lost 5 times. In its last match, Al Ittifaq lost 0-2 against Al Taawon.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 20 goals and conceding 18.
Al Ittifaq will play the next match in Pro League against Al Nassr on Friday 22nd of December in Riyadh. The prediction is Al Nassr winning the match.