- Gerrard recently confirmed as Al-Ettifaq manager
- Spoke Arabic during his unveiling
- New club not expected to challenge this season
WHAT HAPPENED? Gerrard embraced the local culture after being confirmed as the new manager of the Saudi Pro League club, sharing the following message: "Hello, I am Steven Gerrard. I am with Al-Ettifaq. See you soon!"
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Gerrard had been reported to have turned down the chance to take over in Dammam, even publicly stating that he would not be moving to Saudi Arabia. However, shortly after, he changed his mind. He becomes the latest big name to move to the Saudi Pro League, following in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante.
WHAT NEXT? Gerrard takes over a club that is not state-owned and finished seventh in the league last season. Robin Quaison, capped 47 times by Sweden, will be key to his new team's success this campaign.