Steven Gerrard is reportedly on the verge of being dismissed by Al Ettifaq after a string of disappointing results and a controversial admission that he prioritized watching Liverpool matches over training sessions. At 44, Gerrard’s managerial career has been marred by struggles, including a difficult spell at Aston Villa, which tarnished his reputation.
Despite this, he received unexpected backing from Harry Redknapp as a potential candidate for the England manager role. However, the Football Association ultimately chose Thomas Tuchel, sparing England from the possibility of Gerrard’s stewardship.
Gerrard’s time in the Saudi Pro League has not been much more successful. Last season, Al Ettifaq finished in a respectable sixth place, but this year the team’s form has drastically declined.
After eight games, they are 10th with only 11 points, a staggering 13 points behind leaders Al Hilal, and without a win in their last five matches. This poor run has placed Gerrard’s job in jeopardy, with reports suggesting he is close to being sacked.
What seems to have tipped the balance, however, is Gerrard’s admission on RedmenTV that he had been structuring training sessions around watching Liverpool matches, rather than focusing on his responsibilities at Al Ettifaq.
This has reportedly angered the club’s hierarchy, further jeopardizing his position. If dismissed, Gerrard would lose his £15.2 million-a-year contract and face further damage to his already fragile managerial reputation.
