Al-Etifaq moved quickly to replace Steven Gerrard after the manager left the club on Thursday.
It appeared on Wednesday that Gerrard, 44, was in conversation to leave his position, with the club five points above the relegation.
And his departure was confirmed 24 hours later, with the Saudi Pro League Club released a statement that he had left his role of £ 15 million a year through a mutual agreement.
Al-Etifaq, which was completed sixth last season, only won one of their last 14 league games.
Ex-liverpool star Gerrard spent the lead for 18 months and said that it had been a 'positive experience' for him and his family, but acknowledged the bad results of the club this season.
And the Saudi club has already welcomed their new boss and he is no stranger to them.
Saad Al-Shehri has returned the helm of the team where he both managed and played for earlier.
“Welcome back Saad,” wrote Al-Eittifaq on their official social media account. “Home of Commandos welcomes you.”
About the news, Gerrard said: 'I want to express my gratitude to the club, the players, the fans and everyone involved in the chance and support during my time here, especially the president, Mr Samer, CEO Mr Hamad and The head of the football committee Mr. Hatim. '
'I express my thanks for Mr Samer and Mr. Hatim from the first day that I was warmly welcomed, and I enjoyed the opportunity to work with a different culture in a new country.
'So in general I have learned a lot and it has been a positive experience and also for my family, but football is unpredictable, and sometimes things don't go the way we want.
'However, I leave with great respect for the club and the country. I have no doubt that the work that is done will bring success in the future, and I wish the team the very best for the rest of the season. '
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