Gerrard involved in heated altercation in first game as Al Ettifaq manager

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Steven Gerrard has been involved in a heated discussion at half-time during his first competitive match as Al-Ettifaq boss.

Gerrard was in the technical area in Saudi Arabia, as he oversaw his side clash with Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr. Ronaldo wasn't part of proceedings on Monday evening – but he did face former Liverpool team-mate Sadio Mane.

And after Mane fired Al-Nassr ahead, just after the three minute mark, Al-Ettifaq had to grow into the game. However, as the two sides made their way off at half-time, Gerrard was seen in a heated discussion with Al-Nassr boss Luis Castro.

It's unclear what the duo were disagreeing about, but fans were quick to spot the pair in a heated discussion as they made their way down the tunnel.

READ MORE: Sadio Mane takes just three minutes to open Saudi account against Steven Gerrard

Al-Ettifaq found themsleves a goal down when the pair entered into their disagreement, with Al-Nassr finding the net with well-worked goal – finished off by Mane.

Liverpool fans were left conflicted, seeing their former hero find the back of the net against Gerrard and Jordan Henderson.

What do you think of Steven Gerrard in Saudi Arabia? Let us know in the comments section

Gerrard was confirmed as the side's new boss over the summer. "Without a doubt, Gerrard's presence will be an addition and a quantum leap to our league," said Khalid Al-Dabal, the club's chairman.

And he's wasted no time in bringing some familiar faces to the Middle East – including Jordan Henderson. Both ex-Liverpool captains have been criticised for their decision to move to Saudi Arabia.

However, Gerrard recently defended the move: "First of all, I’ve only got positive things to say about your country, which is now a big part of my life. It’s an honour to be here, to have and be part of a different culture.

"I’m really looking forward to being here and my family are due to come over in the coming days. As a family and personally, we’re so excited for the challenge in front of us."

• Steven Gerrard
• Saudi Pro League
• Liverpool FC

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