Former England and Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard has left his role as manager of Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq after 18 months in charge.

The news comes despite Gerrard having signed a three-year contract extension in January 2024. Poor results this season, with just five wins from 17 matches, have left the Dammam-based club in a battle to avoid relegation, with Gerrard stepping down by "mutual consent."

"Football is unpredictable and sometimes things don't go the way we want," said Gerrard. "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."

"From the first day I was warmly welcomed and I have enjoyed the chance to work in a new country with a different culture. Overall I have learnt a lot and it's been a positive experience personally and for my family as well," he added.

Al-Ettifaq club president Same Al Misehal had praise for Gerrard, saying, "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," he commented.

44-year-old Gerrard played 710 times for Liverpool, scoring 185 goals, and also made 114 appearances for England. After hanging up his boots in 2016 following a brief spell in the United States, he moved into coaching with Scottish side Rangers, with whom he lifted the 2020-21 Scottish Premiership title.

Gerrard then joined Aston Villa in November 2021, but left in October 2022 after a poor start to the season left the club struggling to avoid relegation. 

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