Saudi Pro League outfit Al Ettifaq recently announced the appointment of Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard as head coach. The Scouser is set for a managerial stint in Saudi, despite initially having turned down the offer.
The Premier League Icon’s recruitment falls in line with SPL’s strategy of bringing established figures to their domestic league. Gerrard will join the likes of Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo, N’golo Kante, and Kalidou Koulibaly as some of the most popular names in the league. The former England International earned acclaim during his years with Liverpool. During his time in Merseyside, Gerrard lifted numerous honors, including a UEFA Champions League title.
Stevie with a message for Ettifaq pic.twitter.com/Z3tweLkg1h
— The Anfield Talk (@TheAnfieldTalk) July 3, 2023
After hanging up his boots, the midfielder dove head-first into management, beginning with a spell at Scottish side Rangers. Gerrard led The Gers to Premiership glory without losing a single game in the 2020/21 season. And he was hired by Premier League Aston Villa shortly after. At Villa, he oversaw a largely mixed spell, which ended with him being sacked after just 11 months in charge.
Official, completed. Steven Gerrard has been appointed as new head coach of Etiffaq. 🇸🇦🏴 #SaudiLeaguepic.twitter.com/NKLYsuL1HX
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 3, 2023
The former LA Galaxy man remained without a job until Al Ettifaq came calling. He initially declined the opportunity in June, saying “I was invited over there to look at a potential offer, which I did, I have been analyzing that over the last couple of days. But, as we stand right now, I won’t be taking that offer up.”
Clearly, the 43-year-old had a change of heart, as he has put pen to paper on a 2-year deal with Al Ettifaq.
Steven Gerrard’s net worth and salary per week
The Liverpool legend has amassed a sizable fortune over the years. He netted a handsome salary during his time at Anfield and also earned additional revenue through sponsorships. As a manager, Gerrard has continued to receive some lucrative contracts. For instance, he earned $6.2m-a-year at Aston Villa; a club-record fee for a manager. By joining Al Ettifaq, that figure will certainly see a bump in value.
Done Deal: Steven Gerrard and Al Ettifaq have reached an agreement for two seasons.
Gerrard with Rangers:
He restored the league title to the team, which was absent 10 years ago. Achieved the league without any loss in a historic event for the club for the first time in 122 years pic.twitter.com/FcsaXCwNdI— Sportsman of the year (@savageoflagos) June 30, 2023
Early reports have stated that his contract at the club could see him earn around $10.3m annually. With this figure in perspective, his net worth is estimated to be about $80 million.