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Steven Gerrard's Al-Ettifaq press conference comments speaks volumes amid 'resignation decision'

Steven Gerrard
-Credit:Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images


Steven Gerrard did not hold back in what looks like being his final press conference as Al-Ettifaq's manager. The former England international is set to leave Saudi Pro League side - despite only signing a new contract last summer.

The 44-year-old has been in charge since the summer of 2023, but it is now reported that Gerrard and his staff, including Michael Beale, are understood to be in the process of finalising their departure, with the club currently 12th in the table and five points above the relegation zone.

After the weekend's 2-2 draw at second-bottom Al Wehda, Gerrard revealed he was 'not satisfied with the players' performance'. He said: "I'm not satisfied with the players' performance and level.

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"I see the draw as losing two important points and I take responsibility for the result of the match, including missed opportunities and the drop in performance.

"The management of Ettifaq Club has provided everything the team needs in terms of support and transfers. Injuries and the absence of key players have negatively affected performance."

The role at the Dammam-based club was Gerrard’s third managerial job since retiring in 2016. After a spell with Liverpool's academy side, the Kop icon guided Glasgow Rangers to a first title in 10 years in 2020-21.

Gerrard then became Aston Villa manager in November 2021 but left after just 13 wins from his 40 games in charge. He has also worked as a television pundit since retiring.