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STEVEN GERRARD has expressed that he has “unfinished business” as a manager but will only consider joining a club that provides him with “support” and aims to “compete to win.”
The Liverpool legend has not taken on a coaching role since being dismissed by a Saudi club at the beginning of the year.
Steven Gerrard shared with Rio Ferdinand that he has ‘unfinished business’ in management.
The Liverpool icon mentioned he would only join a club that supports him after being let go by Al-Ettifaq.
He enjoyed considerable success in his first managerial role from 2018 to 2021, securing the title.
However, Gerrard faced challenges afterward and was dismissed in 2022.
The 45-year-old faced heavy criticism for accepting the £15m-a-year position at Al-Ettifaq but lasted only 18 months due to a series of disappointing results.
Gerrard discussed his recent managerial difficulties as a guest on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast , explaining what conditions would prompt him to accept a new role.
He revealed that he has received “five or six interesting calls” since leaving Saudi Arabia, but the timing wasn’t quite right.
Gerrard stated: “I believe that certain jobs and clubs would fit my style and approach.”
“However, I also have the luxury of time now where I’m not in a rush. I know the right people who can make me a stronger and better coach. Those are the individuals I need to connect with.”
“If I find the right match with those people around me, I am confident, based on my previous success, that I can be a successful manager. That’s what I’m working on behind the scenes.”
“I've had five or six truly interesting phone calls since my time in Saudi, but I wasn't prepared because I didn't have my team in place. The timing just wasn't right.”
“My daughter just welcomed a baby, making me a granddad. I wasn’t ready. I haven’t organized my staff yet. Therefore, those opportunities or calls came at an inconvenient time.”
“But if the right opportunity arises, with the right club and challenge, and I have my team ready—which I will eventually—I will take that challenge because it’s in my nature.”
This week, Gerrard has been linked to the managerial position following the recent dismissal of a coach.
Gerrard remains a beloved figure at Ibrox, and reports from the Guardian suggest he is a strong contender for the role.
While the former England star did not comment on any specific vacancies, he mentioned Rangers as a club that provided him with support and expressed his desire for similar backing in his next role.
He added: “I felt fully supported at Rangers. The numerous coaching changes at Aston Villa and in Saudi Arabia didn’t aid me personally.”
“I am currently enjoying time with my family and engaging in activities I haven’t had the chance to do before.”
“However, there’s a part of me that still believes there’s unfinished business in terms of taking on a few more exciting challenges.”
“I want a specific type of challenge. If ideal opportunities become available, I will eagerly pursue them. If not, I won’t rush back into management.”
“I want to be part of a team that aims to compete for victory, as I believe that aligns better with my approach.”
Listen to the complete interview on the Rio Meets Steven Gerrard episode available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Steven Gerrard mean by "unfinished business"?
Steven Gerrard refers to his desire to take on new managerial challenges and achieve success in his career, indicating he feels there are opportunities he has yet to explore.
What kind of support does Gerrard seek in his next managerial role?
Gerrard seeks a club that provides strong support for its coaching staff and is committed to competing for titles, similar to the backing he received during his time at Rangers.
