Former Aston Villa chief executive Christian Purslow is reportedly in discussions to join the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq, according to sources from Football Insider. If the 59-year-old finalizes an agreement with the Saudi club, it would mark a reunion with Liverpool legend and former Villa manager Steven Gerrard. Purslow and Gerrard share a connection dating back almost 15 years to their overlapping time at Anfield.
Purslow played a pivotal role in Gerrard’s appointment as the Aston Villa boss in November 2021 during his tenure as the chief executive at Chelsea. Now, the duo could potentially work together again in the lucrative Saudi Pro League, where Al-Ettifaq currently holds the seventh position after 13 games. The club made notable signings in the summer window, including players like Georginio Wijnaldum, Moussa Dembele, Demarai Gray, and Jack Hendry.
Gerrard assumed his position at Al-Ettifaq in July, making a swift return to management just over eight months after a challenging period at Aston Villa. His tenure with Villa ended in October 2022, with the club positioned just above the relegation zone. During his nearly year-long stint, Gerrard won 11 out of a possible 19 games.
Purslow, on the other hand, concluded his successful five-year tenure at Aston Villa in June. The Harvard graduate, who took on the role in August 2018, played a key role in the team’s promotion to the Premier League and in establishing Villa as a top-half club in the English top flight.
In related news, there are reports that Aston Villa is considering a bold move for a new striker.
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