Gerrard’s Arabian Adventure: Rekindled Talks with Al Ettifaq

A Glimmer of Hope

Legend Steven Gerrard, whose managerial stints at Rangers and Aston Villa left indelible marks, might be set to embark on an enchanting Arabian adventure with Saudi Arabia’s Al Ettifaq. The Liverpudlian icon, who left his last post at Villa Park under a cloud, has reportedly rekindled talks with the Saudi Pro League side, Al Ettifaq as per Football Insider.

An Unexpected Twist

Football Insider had previously reported that Gerrard flew to Saudi Arabia for negotiations post his Villa departure. But the Anfield hero threw cold water on the prospects when he disclosed, live on air, that he wouldn’t be accepting Al Ettifaq’s offer. “I have been analysing that [offer] for the last few days but where we stand right now, I won’t be taking that offer,” he said, as quoted by talkSPORT.

A Change of Heart

In a surprising turn of events, it appears that Gerrard and Al Ettifaq have kept the communication lines open. The former England maestro might yet become the next marquee signing to grace the sands of Saudi Arabia.

A League in Ascendancy

The Saudi Pro League, not resting on its laurels, has been on a global superstar signing spree, including the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, N’Golo Kante, and Karim Benzema. Al Ettifaq, a two-time league champion, could benefit immensely from a figure of Gerrard’s calibre, especially as they ended a modest seventh in the 2022-23 campaign and have not made any notable signings this summer.

A Storied Past

Gerrard’s managerial acumen was proven beyond doubt during his time with Rangers. He ascended to the Scottish throne in 2018 and within two years, orchestrated their first league triumph in a decade. His less successful spell at Aston Villa ended in October 2022 with Unai Emery taking the reins.