Steven Gerrard is facing fresh problems at Al-Ettifaq as star midfielder Seko Fofana is set to leave the club in January.
Gerrard has had a difficult spell in the Saudi Pro League despite spending big money to build a star-studded squad. That spending has not led to positive results, with Ettifaq in 11th place, just six points clear of the relegation zone.
They also recently went on a nine-game winless run in the league, which led to the resignations of assistant boss Dean Holden and sporting director Mark Allen. The winter break has given Gerrard the opportunity to replenish his stock.
But on the eve of the January transfer window, the controversial boss was dealt a major blow. After losing captain Jordan Henderson last season, Fofana looks set to follow in the Englishman's footsteps.
According to Le Parisien, the Ivorian midfielder is nearing a return to European football with Ligue 1 team Rennes. The center table has had 'successful discussions' with Fofana.
The 29-year-old is now set to cut short his 18-month stay in Saudi Arabia after Renees made him a top priority. It is understood that he has already passed his medical and should complete his move shortly after the window opens.
Fofana moved to Saudi Arabia to join Al-Nassr in the summer of 2023 and was loaned out twice to Ettifaq. He had an offer to move to another Saudi club but has opted to return to Europe instead.
Rennes will pay Nassr a fee of around £17 million to secure his signature. Fofana's departure will be a bitter blow for Gerrard as the Ivory Coast international has featured in all but two of Ettifaq's league matches this season.
Gerrard has only just returned Ettifaq to victory in the Saudi top flight after guiding them to a 2-1 win over Al-Khaleej in their final match before the winter break. He had hoped to use the break to reset his side for the second half of the campaign.
“Everyone played a role in the match and we were keen to improve our performance in the league. Winning a derby match was a crucial opportunity to get back on the winning track in the competition,” he said after the win.
“Our plan now is to enjoy today's victory. The players really deserve it based on their efforts during this period. During the break we will have some free time to see our families and then we will have important work for the training camp.”
“It's important not to dwell too much on today's result. There is still a lot to work on, both defensively and offensively. We will continue to work with the players individually and collectively to develop and improve our competitive performance.
Comments