Steven Gerrard is set to leave Al-Ettifaq, according to reports. The former Liverpool skipper signed a lucrative deal to become the Saudi Pro League club's manager in January 2023, but he has endured a difficult period there, winning just 23 of his 59 matches in charge.

Gerrard has apparently asked to leave the club for personal reasons, contrary to a report by Spanish outlet Marca which said that he was set to be sacked.

Al-Ettifaq is said to respect Gerrard's decision, and an exit package is being finalized ahead of his departure, which is said to be imminent.

Gerrard is leaving Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq currently sitting in 12th place in the 18-team Saudi Pro League table. The Dammam-based club has won just five of its 17 matches so far this season.

READ MORE: Liverpool transfer news LIVE: Jorrel Hato speaks out, Steven Gerrard update, Mohamed Salah 'exit'

READ MORE: Jonathan David cut-price offer rejected by Lille after Liverpool transfer audition

Speaking after Al-Ettifaq's most-recent match, a 2-2 draw versus Al-Wehda last weekend, Gerrard stated his dissatisfaction with the way things were going. He said: "I am not satisfied with the players' performance and levels. I see the draw as losing two important points.

"I take responsibility for the result of the match, including missed opportunities and the drop in performance. The management of Al-Ettifaq has provided everything the team needs in terms of support and transfers. Injuries and the absence of key players have negatively affected performance."

Gerrard's contract at Al-Ettifaq was said to make him one of the highest-paid managers in the world, with the 44-year-old reportedly earning £15million ($19m) per year.

Al-Ettifaq's assistant manager Michael Beale, who also assisted Gerrard at both Rangers and Aston Villa, is also set to leave the club.