Steven Gerrard has left his role as manager of Al-Ettifaq by mutual consent after 18 months in charge. The former Aston Villa and Rangers manager joined the Saudi Arabian club in July 2023.

Former England and Liverpool midfielder Gerrard signed a two-year contract extension in January 2024, which would keep him at the club until 2027. But Al-Ettifaq have won just five of their 17 league games this season, leaving them five points above the relegation zone.

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

"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 all the best for the rest of the season. From day one I was warmly welcomed and I enjoyed the chance to work in a new country with a different culture. Overall I have learned a lot and it has been a positive experience for me personally and for my family as well."

"Sometimes things don't go as planned, but the strong foundations he helped build will guarantee a bright future in the long run," he said.

After a stellar career with Liverpool and England, 44-year-old Gerrard began his managerial career with Rangers in 2018 and guided the club to their first Scottish Premier League title in 10 years in 2020-21.