Steven Gerrard Signs New Extension to Remain as Al Ettifaq Coach Till 2027

Steven Gerrard signed a new deal with Al-Ettifaq to remain as coach until 2027 on Thursday.

The 43-year-old Gerrard arrived at Al-Ettifaq last July on a two-year deal but his team is a modest eighth in the Pro League table, 28 points behind leaders Al-Hilal.

Al Ettifaq confirmed Gerrard’s new deal on the same evening that they announced Jordan Henderson’s contract at the club had been terminated by mutual consent, as the England international midfielder completed his move to Ajax.

“This is very pleasing for myself and my family and feels like recognition for a lot of hard work and commitment,” said former England captain Gerrard in a statement.

“We knew at the beginning this was a big job and a challenging job, but a lot has been achieved.”

He added: “I also understand my position, it’s a results business. I never take that for granted. I understand where we are in the league, but I am very confident we will improve.”

He joined the Saudi Pro League club in July 2023 but has so far struggled for consistency, with Al Ettifaq winless in their last eight matches.

Al Ettifaq president  Samer Al Misehal added of Gerrard’s extension: “As a club we know where we want to go and we know we want Steven to lead us on the journey ahead.

“There are no shortcuts to success and Steven’s personal work ethic, his leadership qualities and his commitment to the project has shown everyone at the club just what it will take to compete at the highest level.

“We have a proud history and I believe we are now on the right path to return to former glories. We just have to keep going step by step.

“Steven will be given time and resources to continue on this journey and build something special.”

Earlier Thursday, 33-year-old Henderson left Al-Ettifaq after only six months at the club to join faltering Dutch giants Ajax.

Henderson, like Gerrard a former Liverpool captain, was earning a reported £700,000 ($887,000) per week in the kingdom.

His move to Saudi sparked accusations of hypocrisy given Henderson’s outspoken support for the LGBT+ community.

Homosexuality is illegal in Saudi Arabia.