Steven Gerrard has spoken for the first time since Al-Ettifaq announced the club had reached a mutual agreement to part company with the Liverpool icon. Gerrard took to social media to express his gratitude towards the club after almost two years at the Saudi club.

Taking to Instagram, he wrote: "After careful consideration, the club and I have mutually agreed to part ways. This was not an easy decision, but sometimes in football, things don’t work out as planned. The Saudi Pro League is a tough and competitive league, and I have nothing but respect for the players and staff who give their all every day.

"I want to sincerely thank everyone at the club for their support and hard work. Football in Saudi Arabia is moving in the right direction, and I’ll always appreciate my time here. Wishing the tea, and the fans nothing but success moving forward."

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A statement released by the Saudi Pro League on Thursday confirmed Gerrard's departure: "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. Speaking on the decision, club president Samer Al Misehal said: "First and foremost, we extend our sincere gratitude to Steven for his dedication and hard work during his time with the club.

"Sometimes things don't go as planned, but the firm foundations he helped build will guarantee a bright future in the long term. He changed the club for the better, and that will never be forgotten. This decision, made with mutual respect and in agreement, is in the best interest of both Steven and the club as we move forward. While this chapter comes to a close, our work continues.

"Football never stops nor does our ambition and we remain fully focused on the challenges and opportunities ahead. With the rest of the season still to play for, our commitment to success remains unwavering. We trust in our players, staff and fans to push forward together, and we will continue to be fully committed in our efforts to reach our goals."