Steven Gerrard has spoken about his managerial ambitions following his departure from Al-Ettifaq.
The Liverpool icon resigned from his position as head coach of the Saudi Arabian club in January, concluding his tenure after eighteen months.
During his time with Al-Ettifaq, Gerrard faced increasing pressure as the team was only five points above the relegation zone when he left.
After leaving the Saudi club, Gerrard was rumored to be considered for managerial positions at Derby County and Blackburn in the Championship.
However, the former Rangers and Aston Villa manager expressed his contentment with taking a break from coaching in a conversation on the That Peter Crouch Podcast. He stated, “I don`t want to return to work, not currently.”
He elaborated, “Having just finished, I am enjoying the freedom of waking up without the daily pressures, spending time with family, and being free from the stress.”
“I will return to management eventually, but after 18 continuous months of work, I appreciate the chance to enjoy simple pleasures like playing golf or visiting a pub.”
“I want to engage in normal activities that are challenging to do while coaching. So, I am content,” he added.
“I am doing well and feeling stress-free. I am currently not working in coaching or management, which is typically a 24/7 commitment.”
Despite his current break, Gerrard is expected to return to the sidelines in the future, as he emphasized his enduring “love” for football.
He also admitted that coaching does not provide the same excitement he experienced as a player during his prime.
Gerrard reflected, “I miss playing every day, constantly. I wish I could relive those moments and play again.”
“Coaching and management are not the same; they don`t quite fill that void. While it`s rewarding to remain involved in the sport, it lacks the thrill of playing, which I now realize I didn`t fully appreciate at the time.”
