Michael Beale reunited with Steven Gerrard at Al Ettifaq

Michael Beale has been named assistant manager at Saudi Pro League club Al Ettifaq, reuniting with Steven Gerrard after a challenging period for the Liverpool legend.

Beale, a former Glasgow Rangers manager and ex-Chelsea and Liverpool coach, replaces Dean Holden, who left the club along with sporting director Mark Allen.

Gerrard, under pressure after a poor start to the season, made changes in a bid to improve results.

Al Ettifaq currently sit 12th in the league, with five losses in ten games, including a disappointing 2-0 defeat to rivals Al Qadsiah. Fans have voiced their frustration, booing Gerrard, whose lucrative AED70 million-a-year contract runs until 2027.

Beale, 44, joins the staff after a brief, tumultuous stint at Sunderland, where he reportedly lost the dressing room before being sacked in February.

Gerrard’s tenure has seen mixed fortunes. While his first season ended with a respectable sixth-place finish, Al Ettifaq still trailed champions Al Hilal by 48 points.

Gerrard’s past successes, including Rangers’ 2020/21 Scottish Premiership title and Europa League final run, now feel distant as he fights to turn Al Ettifaq’s season around.