Aston Villa on Thursday announced Steven Gerrard as their new manager after sacking Dean Smith, following a run of five successive Premier League defeats. The 41-year-old has been in charge of Rangers since June 2018. () He led the club to the first Scottish Premiership title in 10 years last season, finishing the campaign undefeated in the league.
“Aston Villa is a club with a rich history and tradition in English football. And I am immensely proud to become its new head coach. In my conversations with Nassef, Wes, and the rest of the board. It was apparent how ambitious their plans are for the club. And I am looking forward to helping them achieve their aims,” Gerrard said of his appointment. “
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everybody associated with Glasgow Rangers. Giving me the opportunity to manage such an iconic football club. Helping them secure a record-breaking 55th league title will always hold a special place in my heart. I would like to wish the players, staff, and supporters the very best for the future.”
Aston Villa are delighted to appoint Steven Gerrard as our new head coach: Club CEO Christian Purslow
Gerrard is considered one of the greatest players in Premier League history, scoring 186 goals in 710 appearances for Liverpool. During his time at Liverpool, he has won several trophies including won two FA Cups, three League Cups. He also won the UEFA Club Footballer of the Year and won the Ballon d’Or Bronze Award in 2005.
Villa CEO Christian Purslow said: “Since moving into coaching after his illustrious playing career, Steven began by managing. And developing top young players in the Liverpool FC Academy which is an experience we value highly at Aston Villa.
“He then took the brave decision to test himself in the intense. And high pressured environment of the Scottish Old Firm. His subsequent achievement in winning the Premiership title with Glasgow Rangers. Really caught our eye as did his experience in Europe,” he added
Villa are 16th in the Premier League table, two points above the relegation zone after the first 11 games. Gerrard’s first match in charge is set to be the Premier League match against Brighton on November 20.
