Liverpool legend faces crucial career decision after Saudi exit | OneFootball

Steven Gerrard’s Saudi Arabian Gamble and the Uncertain Road Ahead

Steven Gerrard’s arrival at Al Ettifaq in July 2023 was meant to be the beginning of something transformative. Draped in Saudi national colours and speaking in Arabic at his unveiling, he presented himself as a man embracing a bold new frontier. The former Liverpool captain was not just taking a job—he was committing to a project, one that promised riches and the chance to rebuild his managerial career after a chastening spell at Aston Villa.

Why It Went Wrong

From the outset, there was a sense of excitement surrounding Gerrard’s appointment. With his pedigree and leadership, Al Ettifaq were hoping to break into the upper echelons of the Saudi Pro League. However, football projects are rarely about ambition alone. While the likes of Al Hilal and Al Nassr were securing superstars, Al Ettifaq struggled to compete in the transfer market. The club’s summer window was underwhelming, leaving Gerrard with a squad that was far from ready to challenge at the top.

Speaking to The Athletic, sources described how Gerrard’s frustration grew over time: “He changed the club for the better and that will never be forgotten,” said Al Ettifaq president Samer Al Misehal. But good intentions don’t always yield results.

Key injuries, recruitment struggles, and an inability to match the financial firepower of rival clubs left Gerrard fighting a losing battle. When Jordan Henderson, one of his marquee signings, left after just a few months, it was clear that the vision Gerrard had signed up for was quickly crumbling.

Photo: IMAGO

Lessons From Aston Villa

Gerrard’s departure from Al Ettifaq was amicable, a sharp contrast to his exit from Aston Villa in 2022, where he was dismissed after a poor run of form. The similarities, however, are hard to ignore. His time at Villa saw a promising start unravel as injuries mounted and key decisions backfired. His intense managerial style, which had brought success at Rangers, seemed less effective in the Premier League.

After leaving Villa, Gerrard was in no rush to return to management. Turning down opportunities in England, he saw Saudi Arabia as a place where he could rebuild without the scrutiny of European football’s biggest leagues. It was, in theory, the perfect reset. Instead, it has led to further questions about his ability to adapt and manage at the highest level.

Photo: IMAGO

What Next For Gerrard?

With his reputation dented, Gerrard faces a crossroads in his managerial career. Premier League clubs are unlikely to come calling in the immediate future. Championship sides may be interested, but does Gerrard see that as a step too far down?

His time in Saudi Arabia may have offered financial security, but it did little to convince observers that he is a top-tier manager. The reality is stark: without a clear and successful next move, he risks being left behind in the fast-moving world of elite football management.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, seeing Gerrard struggle in management is a difficult watch. He remains a club legend, a figure who symbolised the club’s fighting spirit during his playing days. But coaching is a different challenge, and his managerial career has been far from smooth.

Many fans had hoped his Rangers success would translate into a seamless transition into the Premier League. Instead, both Villa and Al Ettifaq have exposed his managerial limitations. His desire and passion are unquestionable, but tactical adaptability and squad management remain areas of concern.

There’s still a belief that he could develop into a strong coach given the right opportunity. A return to Liverpool in some capacity has always been speculated, but would that be best for him or the club? Right now, the answer isn’t clear. What is certain is that his next move is crucial. He can’t afford another misstep.

Gerrard’s legacy at Liverpool is untouchable. His legacy as a manager? That remains an open question.