Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard takes charge as manager of Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has made another significant signing in the world of football as Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard was announced as the new manager of Al-Ettifaq on Monday.

The renowned former England captain is the latest star to be enticed to the oil-rich kingdom as part of its ongoing ambitious recruitment drive.

Having previously managed Scottish club Rangers and Premier League side Aston Villa after retiring as a player, Gerrard follows in the footsteps of another Liverpool great, Robbie Fowler, who was appointed by Al-Qadisiyah last week.

Al-Ettifaq expressed their excitement on Twitter, stating, "Here is the source of the legends. We're thrilled to announce Steven Gerrard as our new head coach."

Gerrard's managerial career took an unexpected turn after being sacked by Villa last season, with the club narrowly avoiding relegation from the Premier League.

This move marks a fresh start for Gerrard, who had shown promising potential as a coach, leading Rangers to the Scottish league title in 2021 and ending Celtic's nine-year championship dominance.

Before joining Villa, he had been earmarked as a potential future manager of Liverpool and a successor to Jurgen Klopp.

As Al-Ettifaq competes in the lucrative Saudi Pro League, they are yet to secure a major player signing during the current offseason, which has witnessed the arrival of notable names like Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante, along with several stars from Europe's top leagues. Cristiano Ronaldo also made his move to the country, signing with Al-Nassr in January.

During his playing career, Gerrard achieved remarkable success, winning numerous prestigious club trophies, including the Champions League with Liverpool in 2005. Although he garnered an impressive collection of seven more major cups, he was unable to lift the coveted Premier League title.

Also watch: Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez arrives in Kolkata, gets huge reception by fans