Englishman Steven Gerrard, head coach of Al-Ettifaq, expressed his frustration following the team’s 3-0 loss to Al Nassr on Friday
After the match, held in Dammam as part of the fourth round of the Roshn Saudi League, Gerrard revealed in a press conference that he had hoped to face Al Nassr before their new coach’s arrival.
“The new coach gave them a huge morale boost, and today they were the better team,” Gerrard said.
“When you play against Al Nassr, one of the best teams in the league, you need high focus from the team and from the refereeing. We had a penalty that, if given, could have changed the outcome.”
This was Al-Ettifaq’s first loss of the season after securing three consecutive wins with a perfect points record.
Meanwhile, this was Al Nassr’s first match under their new coach, Stefano Pioli, who replaced Portuguese manager Luis Castro, dismissed last Tuesday due to poor results.
Gerrard labeled the performance as disappointing, adding: “We will review the details to correct them and improve the team in future matches. Today’s loss wasn’t due to a lack of effort; all the players gave their best, but our issue was effectiveness in the final third.”
The Englishman also called for realism, stating: “It’s important to be realistic. Teams with more money buy world-class, while those with less buy the best to their abilities. We’re currently bringing in backup players from Al Nassr and Al Hilal.”
Regarding his new Brazilian winger João Costa, Gerrard commented: “He’s talented but needs time to adapt and reach full readiness. We’ll work with him to get him there.”
He also spoke about Spanish midfielder Álvaro Medrán, saying: “Álvaro is a standout player, but he’s returning from injury and needs to regain full fitness.”
Both Costa and Medrán started on the bench and were brought on by Steven Gerrard in the second half of the match, which took place at Al-Ettifaq’s new stadium.