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Struggles in Saudi Arabia Raise Questions
Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard is facing mounting pressure as manager of Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia. The 44-year-old has had a rocky start to the Saudi Pro League season, with his team languishing in 12th place after a dismal record of three wins and five losses from ten matches. This poor performance has led to speculation about his future, with reports suggesting that club officials are contemplating a change at the helm.
Fans Express Discontent
Gerrard’s struggles have not gone unnoticed by the fans, who voiced their frustration with boos following a recent defeat to Al-Qadsiah. The pressure is mounting, and it seems that the former Liverpool captain’s tenure in Saudi Arabia could be in jeopardy if results do not improve soon.
Support from Former Teammate
Despite the turmoil, there is still hope for Gerrard’s managerial career, as former teammate Danny Murphy has suggested a potential return to Rangers, where Gerrard previously found significant success. Murphy acknowledges the challenges that would come with such a move but believes that Gerrard’s determination could lead to another successful stint at Ibrox.
Rangers’ Current Struggles
Rangers are currently facing their own difficulties under manager Philippe Clement, sitting third in the Scottish Premiership with six wins and three losses from ten matches. Murphy notes that replicating Gerrard’s earlier success at the club would be no easy feat, especially given the current disparity in squad strength compared to Celtic, who have widened the gap since Gerrard’s departure.
A Legacy of Triumph at Rangers
During his time at Rangers, Gerrard achieved remarkable success, leading the team to the Scottish Premiership title in the 2020-21 season without losing a single league match. He also managed to secure victories against Celtic, which only added to his legendary status among the Rangers faithful. Murphy believes that if Gerrard were to return and manage to reclaim the league title, it would be a monumental achievement given the current circumstances.
Gerrard’s Coaching Journey
Before taking the reins at Al-Ettifaq, Gerrard had coaching stints with Liverpool’s Under-18 and Under-19 teams after retiring from playing in 2016. His experience at these youth levels helped him transition into senior management, eventually leading him to Rangers and then Aston Villa, where he faced a challenging period before his departure.
Villa’s Revival Under New Management
While Gerrard struggled at Aston Villa, the club has since found its footing under new manager Unai Emery, who has revitalized the team and brought about impressive performances. This contrast highlights the difficulties Gerrard has faced in his managerial career, as he seeks to find a stable footing in a competitive landscape.
What Lies Ahead for Gerrard?
With his lucrative £15.2 million-a-year contract in Saudi Arabia now at risk following a disappointing run of results, the future looks uncertain for Gerrard. The prospect of returning to Rangers is tantalizing, but whether he can replicate his past successes remains to be seen. As the football world watches closely, fans are left wondering if the Liverpool legend can navigate his way back to glory.
Time Will Tell
As Gerrard grapples with his current challenges, only time will reveal whether he can turn things around at Al-Ettifaq or if a return to Rangers is on the horizon. For now, the football community remains intrigued by the possibilities that lie ahead for one of England’s most celebrated players.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://3pointsforawin.com/manchester-uniteds-missed-opportunity-the-jarrad-branthwaite-saga/
