Steven Gerrard breaks silence on Al Ettifaq exit as Rangers ally follows Liverpool icon out of the door
Disappointed Steven Gerrard has admitted "sometimes things don’t go the way we want" after leaving his role as Al-Ettifaq boss.
The former Aston Villa and Rangers boss has been facing mounting pressure in the Saudi Pro League with the club languishing in 12th spot in the table - just five points away from the relegation zone after Saturday's draw with struggling Al-Wehda. The club higher-ups took action to assist the Liverpool legend last November after a disappointing start to the season with No. 2 Dean Holden and former Ibrox sporting director Mark Allen shown the door. They then coaxed Rangers flop Michael Beale to jet out to the Middle East to work as Gerrard's assistant once again.
But now both Gerrard and Beale have left their posts at the club. After confirmation of his departure, the Liverpool legend said: “I want to express my gratitude to the club, the players, the fans and everyone involved for the opportunity and the support during my time here, especially the president, Mr Samer, CEO, Mr Hamad and the head of football committee, Mr Hatim.
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“I express my gratitude for Mr Samer and Mr Hatim from the first day I was warmly welcomed and I have enjoyed the chance to work in a new country with a different culture. So overall I have learnt a lot and it’s been a positive experience personally and for my family as well.
“But football is unpredictable and sometimes things don’t go the way we want. However, I leave with great respect for the club and the country. I have no doubt that the work being done will bring success in the future and I wish the team the very best for the rest of the season.”
A club statement read: "Ettifaq Football Club and Steven Gerrard have today mutually agreed to part company. The decision follows an amicable conclusion to the relationship with the manager.”
