Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has become the latest football star to make the move to Saudi Arabia, signing a deal to become the head coach of Al-Ettifaq. The 43-year-old had been out of the game since being sacked by Aston Villa in October, but he has now found a new opportunity in the Gulf state.
Despite previously turning down an offer to head to Saudi Arabia, Gerrard has been enticed by the lucrative prospects on offer. In an announcement on Twitter, Al-Ettifaq declared, “Where legends are found. We’re thrilled to announce Steven Gerrard as our new head coach.”
Al-Ettifaq, who finished seventh in the Saudi Pro League last season, is backed by the nation’s sovereign wealth fund. The league has been successful in attracting renowned names from the major European leagues, thanks to the promise of substantial salaries.
Joining Gerrard in the move to Saudi Arabia is Croatian World Cup player Marcelo Brozovic, who has signed with Al Nassr. The 30-year-old midfielder captained Inter Milan in their Champions League final defeat to Manchester City in June and has made 87 appearances for Croatia.
This trend of top players heading to Saudi Arabia was kickstarted by Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr in January. Other notable names such as Karim Benzema, Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate, and N’Golo Kante, the French World Cup winner from Chelsea, have recently joined Al-Ittihad.
The coaching ranks have also seen influential additions with former Tottenham manager Nuno Espirito Santo and ex-Benfica coach Jorge Jesus making the move to Saudi Arabia.
Following a successful playing career, Gerrard achieved significant accomplishments during his tenure as the manager of Scottish giants Rangers. Under his guidance, the club won their first league title in 10 years during the 2020/21 season.
As Gerrard takes charge of Al-Ettifaq, football fans will eagerly await the impact he can make on the team and how his wealth of experience as both a player and a manager will shape their future performances in the Saudi Pro League.
