Steven Gerrard QUITS Al-Ettifaq due to 'personal reasons' as Liverpool legend's exit confirmed with club marooned in bottom half of Saudi Pro League

Gerrard asked to leave the club for 'personal reasons',according to Ben Jacobs, and Al-Ettifaq granted his wish on Thursday after talks with the Liverpool icon. The team currently sit 12th in the Saudi Pro League, a whopping 24 points behind leaders Al-Hilal.

Al-Ettifaq have confirmed they have "mutually agreed to part company" with Gerrard, who added in an official statement: "I want to express my gratitude to the club, the players and fans and everyone involved for the opportunity and the support during my time here, especially the president, Mr. Samer, CEO Mr. Hamed, and the head of football committee Mr Hatim. Overall I have learned a lot and it's been a positive experience for me personally and for my family as well. But football is unpredictable and sometimes things don't go the way we want."

Gerrard's future at the Dammam club had been under scrutiny for some time amid their disappointing performances. Speaking after his team's recent 2-2 draw against Al-Wehda, the former Liverpool midfielder said he takes "responsibility" for his team's poor form, adding: "The management of Ettifaq have provided everything the team needs in terms of support and transfers."

Gerrard took charge of the Saudi side in July 2023 and his contract was due to run until 2027, but with just six wins in all competitions this season the club will hope a new manager will help turn their situation around.

The former Aston Villa and Rangers manager could end up taking on a different job in Saudi Arabia as he is reportedly open to a role in football development in the country.