Steven Gerrard reveals three key reasons for joining Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq

Steven Gerrard has explained his decision to accept the opportunity to manage in Saudi Arabia with Al Ettifaq.

The former Rangers and Aston Villa manager, 43, was last week confirmed as the new head coach of the east coast club on a two-year contract despite initially turning down the role. Ettifaq finished last season’s Saudi Pro League in seventh.

In taking the job, Gerrard became the latest high-profile figure to continue his career in the Saudi top flight.

On Sunday, Ettifaq released Gerrard’s first interview since signing, with the former Liverpool captain saying: "There were a lot of reasons for me wanting to join the club. The club has a lot of good people that represent the club, from the board down.

"When I went over to Saudi, I got a real family feel. They made me feel extremely welcome.

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