Steven Gerrard's future at Al Ettifaq under threat after dismal run

Steven Gerrard's future at Al Ettifaq is under threat after his side's woeful run of form. 

The former Liverpool captain was named manager of the Saudi Pro League club in July 2023, his first job since being sacked by Aston Villa in October 2022.

Gerrard signed a number of familiar faces, including the likes of Demarai Gray, Moussa Dembele and former Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum.

However, his marquee signing was ex-Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson, the 33-year-old joining Al Ettifaq from the Reds for £12m.

Despite a positive start for the former Rangers boss in which he won six of his first eight matches, things quickly went south for Gerrard.

Al Ettifaq haven't won a match in any competition since late October 2023, losing four and drawing five of their last nine fixtures.

As a result of their dismal form, the Saudi side find themselves eighth in the league table and have also exited the King's Cup at the hands of Sadio Mane's Al Nassr.

The Guardian report that Gerrard's position as Al Ettifaq manager is under serious threat, especially given that there have already been 13 sackings in the Saudi Pro League this season.

Former Reds Igor Biscan and Robbie Fowler have already lost their jobs, with Gerrard perhaps not too far behind.

It's claimed that Liverpool's ex-captain is currently being "shielded by his status", with Gerrard an incredibly high-profile name in the Pro League.

However, he can't be protected forever, perhaps not even making it to the end of the 2023/24 season.

Gerrard has called on Al Ettifaq to be more aggressive in the transfer market, although star summer signing Henderson is reportedly angling for a return to Europe already.

It seemed almost inevitable that the 43-year-old would take residence in the Anfield dugout one day, especially after the good work he did in Scotland. However, it now seems incredibly unlikely, if not impossible, that Gerrard will become Liverpool boss one day.