Steven Gerrard's time in Saudi Arabia has been far from plain sailing. The Liverpool icon has endured a number of ups and downs since he took charge of Al-Ettifaq back in the summer of 2023.

At the moment, Gerrard’s side find themselves 11th in the Saudi Pro League table and were beaten 2-1 by Al Ahli in their last outing. But the former England international has had to contend with problems on and off the pitch as Gerrard admitted earlier this month that he didn’t expect Seko Fofana to depart for Stade Rennais.

Speaking to reporters following Al-Ettifaq's 3-2 home defeat to Al Kholood, Gerrard said: "The team's performance was poor and it's hard to defend anyone, especially when we concede three goals like that.

READ MORE: Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler eyeing surprise job after repeated pleas for chance in management

READ MORE: Arne Slot left us laughing after engaging in unexpected Liverpool debate

"[Abdulelah] Almalki couldn't participate in the match, yet he gave it his all. Wijnaldum was sick in the last 48 hours before the game. Similarly, Medran suffered a minor injury before the match and I hope he'll be ready for the next game.

"I chose the best attacking players, but the result didn't go our way. We were stronger in terms of squad depth before the break, and I don't have an answer regarding signing a new defensive midfielder. I didn't expect Fofana to leave, it happened suddenly."

However, Al-Ettifaq have now responded to losing the midfielder by completing the signing of Josen Escobar from CD America. But Gerrard faces losing another midfielder this month.

That is because according to a report from French publication L'Equipe, via Get Football News France, AS Monaco have enquired into the status of Georginio Wijnaldum. The report goes on to claim that the Ligue 1 side are in the midst of a search for an experienced midfielder who can help bolster their options and support Denis Zakaria.

The Dutchman ended his five-year stay at Anfield back in the summer of 2022 after the expiration of his contract, which he signed in 2016 after arriving from Newcastle United. During his time on Merseyside, Wijnaldum became a fan favourite as he made 237 appearances for the Reds and won four major trophies.

Wijnaldum has made 49 appearances since joining Al-Ettifaq from Paris Saint-Germain two years ago. His current deal with the Saudi Pro League side expires next summer.