Steven Gerrard targets Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson as first signing in new role as Al Ettifaq manager

In an exciting turn of events, Steven Gerrard has been officially appointed as the new manager of Al Ettifaq. After parting ways with Aston Villa last October, Gerrard initially declined the Saudi Pro League club’s offer following a visit to the Middle East in June. However, talks resumed, leading to the former Liverpool legend accepting the position and signing a two-year contract with the Dammam-based outfit.

Saudi Arabia has become a magnet for high-profile signings, having successfully attracted renowned players such as Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Ruben Neves in recent times. Now, according to a fresh report from the Daily Mail, Gerrard has set his sights on two marquee signings—Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and former Chelsea forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Gerrard and Henderson shared the pitch during their time at Liverpool, with the latter eventually assuming the captaincy upon Gerrard’s departure for LA Galaxy. While Henderson is still under contract until 2025, a move to Saudi Arabia after enjoying 12 trophy-laden years at Liverpool would undoubtedly come as a surprise to many.

On the other hand, Aubameyang’s potential transfer appears more plausible, given his lackluster season at Chelsea, where he scored just three goals in 21 appearances. Several Chelsea players, including N’Golo Kante, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Edouard Mendy, have already made the move to Saudi Arabia. Hakim Ziyech was set to join Al Nassr, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, until a medical examination revealed a knee problem, derailing the deal.

In addition to Henderson and Aubameyang, there are rumors of a potential reunion between Gerrard and Philippe Coutinho, who previously played under him at Aston Villa. The Brazilian midfielder has been linked with a move to Al Ettifaq, further adding to the anticipation surrounding Gerrard’s new tenure.

Gerrard’s arrival was officially announced on Monday, accompanied by a video where the former England captain even attempted to speak Arabic, saying, “I am Steven Gerrard. I am an Ettifaqi. See you soon.” Excitement is building among fans and pundits alike as they await the outcome of Gerrard’s ambitious transfer plans and his first steps as Al Ettifaq manager.