The ex-Liverpool and England midfielder has been appointed the new head coach of Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq. Reports this week suggested the 42-year-old had agreed terms with the Middle East side and was closing in on his return to the dugout.
Now the Saudi Pro League outfit have confirmed the news and have posted a video on social media showing his greatest moments from his career as a player to get fans excited.
With the wealthy teams splashing out large this summer to entice the best stars to the Pro League, he will now join players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and N’Golo Kante among others in the Middle East for the upcoming season.
The former Light Blues manager made a remarkable U-turn, however, by denying recent rumors that he will be taking a job in Saudi Arabia.
Gerrard declared last month that he would not be accepting the open role at Al-Ettifaq and disqualified himself from consideration.
When questioned about his return to management and the connections with the Saudi side, he responded, “There have been many things mentioned, most of which are untrue.
Where legends are found ❤️💚
We’re thrilled to announce Steven Gerrard is our new head coach ✍️#GerrardEttifaqi pic.twitter.com/hgeHl1Djnu
— Ettifaq Club (@Ettifaq_EN) July 3, 2023
“I was invited over there to look at a potential offer, which I did.
“I’ve been analysing that in the last few days.
“But where we stand now, I won’t be taking that offer up.”
Al Ettifaq representatives were in London on Monday finalising Gerrard’s appointment ahead of the confirmation.
