'I didn't expect it' – Steven Gerrard breaks silence on Al-Ettifaq exit departure defeat
'I didn't expect it' – Steven Gerrard breaks silence on Al-Ettifaq exit departure defeat
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Steven Gerrard has finally broken his silence on the departure of Al-Ettifaq’s star player after the side suffered yet another defeat, saying: “I didn’t expect it”. The Liverpool legend, 44, has endured a difficult time since taking charge of the Saudi Pro League club in July 2023. After only mustering up a sixth-place finish in his first season, Al-Ettifaq have not managed to build any momentum under the Englishman.
Gerrard’s side are currently languishing in 11th place after securing just four victories from 14 matches. That means they sit three points clear of the relegation zone. The difficulty in keeping Al-Ettifaq afloat has been compounded by the loss of midfielder Seko Fofana at the start of this year, who returned to France to sign permanently with Rennes after being on loan from Al-Nassr.
A club statement confirmed: "Ettifaq announces the termination of the loan agreement of the player Seko Fofana, who was loaned from Al-Nassr FC during the last summer transfer window, by mutual consent between both parties. "The club extends its sincere thanks to the player for his time with the team, wishing him the best of luck in his next challenge. Ettifaq also expresses its gratitude and appreciation of the board of directors and the executives of Al-Nassr FC for their continued and professional cooperation.".
Gerrard opened up about the team's issues following Al-Ettifaq's narrow 3-2 home defeat to Al-Kholood on Friday night, saying: "The team's performance was poor and it's hard to defend anyone, especially when we concede three goals like that. [Abdulelah] Almalki couldn't participate in the match, yet he gave it his all. Wijnaldum was sick in the last 48 hours before the game.
