Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard appointed head coach of Saudi's Al-Ettifaq
Saudi Arabian football team Al-Ettifaq has confirmed the appointment of Steven Gerrard as their new head coach, the Saudi Pro League club announced on Monday.
"Where legends are found. We're thrilled to announce Steven Gerrard is our new head coach," the club wrote on Twitter.
"He's no stranger to silverware. A Legend who brings a glorious history and exciting future to Ettifaq.”
In June, Gerrard, a former Liverpool and England midfielder, was invited to look at a potential offer to join the team, but he said he would not be going ahead with it.
Now, he has signed a two-year contract with the Saudi club.
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Last season, the club landed a seventh-place finish in the Saudi Pro League, with a 35-point gap separating them from league champions Al-Ittihad.
"Without a doubt, Gerrard's presence will be an addition and a quantum leap to our league," Khalid Al-Dabal, the club's chairman said.
Gerrard guided Rangers to their first Scottish Premiership title in 10 years in 2021 before leaving for the English Premier League club Aston Villa, where he was sacked last year.
Saudi Arabia's spending on football
For a significant period, Saudi Arabia has held a dominant position in Middle Eastern football.
The national team has represented Saudi Arabia in the World Cup six times and secured two Asian Cup victories. Additionally, various club teams from the nation have excelled in the Asian Champions League.
Last December, Al-Nassr, a club based in Riyadh, signed Cristiano Ronaldo, who is not only one of the most accomplished footballers in history but also boasts a staggering Instagram following nearing 600 million.
Al-Ittihad brought on board Karim Benzema, the distinguished recipient of the Balon d'Or, the most prestigious individual award in football. N'Golo Kante from Chelsea joined them as well.
The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has become the primary vehicle in his ambitious effort to restructure the kingdom's economy, which is largely reliant on oil.
The PIF recently assumed control over Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli from Jeddah, as well as Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr from Riyadh.
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