Steven Gerrard Eyes Bringing Liverpool Legend to Saudi Arabia Following Transfer Revelation
In a bid to turn the tables on a struggling season in the Saudi Pro League, Steven Gerrard, at the helm of Al-Ettifaq, is eyeing a potential move for former Liverpool star Roberto Firmino. Both Gerrard and Firmino have faced challenges since their Saudi Arabian ventures began, with Al-Ettifaq enduring a winless streak and Firmino grappling to make a significant impact at Al-Ahli.
The pressure mounts on Gerrard as Al-Ettifaq faces a tough run, having faced six league games without a victory since October. The recent 2-0 defeat at home to Al-Taawoun adds to the mounting concerns, especially with an impending fixture against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr looming.
Firmino’s struggles continue in Saudi Arabia. Despite his prolific record at Liverpool, the forward has found it challenging to replicate his form at Al-Ahli, managing only three goals in 15 league appearances. While Al-Ahli holds the third spot in the league standings, they trail behind Al-Hilal by a significant 13-point margin.
Although Al-Ettifaq stands eighth in the league, significant investments have been made in the squad since Gerrard’s arrival, securing notable signings like Jack Hendry, Moussa Dembele, Jordan Henderson, Georginio Wijnaldum, and Demarai Gray.
Now, Gerrard aims to bolster the team further, with rumors circulating about Al-Ettifaq’s interest in Firmino. Speculation suggests a potential loan bid from Gerrard’s side and several other clubs in the Saudi Pro League.
Firmino remains under contract with Al-Ahli until June 2026. However, the Brazilian forward has seen limited starting opportunities since October, raising eyebrows considering his captaincy role upon joining Al-Ahli.
When questioned about Firmino’s potential move, Gerrard remained tight-lipped but expressed admiration for the player. “I’ve been a massive fan. I’ve followed him for years,” Gerrard stated, acknowledging his fondness for Firmino’s talent while refraining from delving into the ongoing transfer speculation.
Highlighting Al-Ettifaq’s urgency for reinforcements in the January transfer window, Gerrard emphasized the need for impactful signings to bolster the team’s position, currently hovering just 10 points above the relegation zone.
Firmino, with his wealth of experience garnered from over 600 appearances at club and international levels, notably during an illustrious tenure at Liverpool, where he secured seven trophies, could prove to be an ideal addition for Gerrard’s side looking to revamp their fortunes in the Saudi Pro League.