Steven Gerrard hits new Saudi low as Al-Ettifaq sack pressure grows after latest loss

Steven Gerrard is under immense pressure at Al-Ettifaq (Image: Getty)

Steven Gerrard has hit a new low in Saudi Arabia as his Al-Ettifaq team suffered another defeat on Friday night.

Gerrard took the reins at Al-Ettifaq in the summer of 2023, guiding them to a respectable sixth place finish in the Saudi Pro League last season.

However, his second season has been a catastrophe, with his team securing just three victories. In fact, their last league triumph was on 14 September, and since then they have endured a seven-match winless streak in the Pro League.

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This dismal run has left them languishing in 11th place, a staggering 17 points behind leaders Al-Hilal. Despite significant backing in the transfer market, Gerrard's side have underperformed, leading to boos from a large portion of the Al-Ettifaq supporters, many of whom have chanted for him to 'get out'.

The pressure mounted on Gerrard on Friday night when his side succumbed to a 3-1 defeat against Al-Hilal. Goals from Aleksandar Mitrovic, Malcolm and Mohammed Al-Qahtani ensured a dominant win for the hosts. Victor Vinicius Coelho dos Santos netted a consolation penalty in stoppage time.

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Abdullah Radif was then shown a red card for Gerrard's side, adding insult to injury. After defeat last weekend, Gerrard accepted full responsibility for his team's dreadful run, although he did attribute some of the blame to injuries within his squad.

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He said at the time: "I spoke to the players. If we had performed like this before, we would not have put ourselves in this embarrassing situation, but I bear the responsibility."

Despite calls for his dismissal, Gerrard remains undeterred, asserting his determination to ride out the storm: "On the back of recent results in my position you are always aware of disappointment from fans, I have to take that responsibility on my shoulders. That is what I will do and continue to fight and work to improve the recent results.

"I don't react, change or get over-concerned about social media or anyone on the outside of Ettifaq's opinion, my priority is this club. I listen to the people within and continue to support my players."

Steven Gerrard hits new Saudi low as Al-Ettifaq sack pressure grows after latest loss

Steven Gerrard hits new Saudi low as Al-Ettifaq sack pressure grows after latest loss

Steven Gerrard hits new Saudi low as Al-Ettifaq sack pressure grows after latest loss

Steven Gerrard hits new Saudi low as Al-Ettifaq sack pressure grows after latest loss

Steven Gerrard hits new Saudi low as Al-Ettifaq sack pressure grows after latest loss