Steven Gerrard has been dealt another blow at Al-Ettifaq after losing one of his key players. The Liverpool icon has endured a difficult period in Saudi Arabia since taking over in July 2023.

His team finished in sixth during his first season but haven't been able to kick on under Gerrard. This season, they are currently 11th after winning just four of their 14 games.

As a result, they are just three points clear of the Saudi Pro League relegation zone. His task to keep them up in the division has not been helped by the exit of midfielder Seko Fofana.

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The Frenchman, who joined the side on loan from rivals Al-Nassr midway through last season, left at the start of the year to club to join French side Rennes in a permanent move. A club statement at the time read: "Ettifaq announces the termination of the loan agreement of the player Seko Fofana, who was loaned from Al-Nassr FC during the last summer transfer window, by mutual consent between both parties.

"The club extends its sincere thanks to the player for his time with the team, wishing him the best of luck in his next challenge. Ettifaq also expresses its gratitude and appreciation of the board of directors and the executives of Al-Nassr FC for their continued and professional cooperation."

Gerrard briefly addressed the situation for the first time after Al-Ettifaq's latest 3-2 home league defeat to Al Kholood on Friday night. He said: "The team's performance was poor and it's hard to defend anyone, especially when we concede three goals like that. [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."