Mohamed Salah: How Trabzonspor pulled off deal for ex-Liverpool forward
Mohamed Salah has joined Trabzonspor after leaving Liverpool, rejecting moves to Saudi Arabia or the United States in a surprise transfer coup.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 / Author: Eric The Fish
After nine stellar seasons at Liverpool, Mohamed Salah has made a surprise move to Turkish side Trabzonspor, opting for the Black Sea coast over rumored destinations in Saudi Arabia or the United States. His unveiling at Papara Park drew 35,000 passionate fans, marking the beginning of a significant chapter for the club.
Club president Ertugrul Dogan, who led negotiations, revealed that the deal was finalized over five to six days after other Turkish clubs withdrew their interest. Dogan emphasized that sincerity and the unique connection with the city of Trabzon were decisive factors. "We told him about the city and said: 'You can be sure you will meet a group of supporters unlike any you have experienced before,'" the president explained.
While the deal carries a €17m annual salary, the financial impact has been immediate. The announcement triggered a surge in season ticket sales, with the club now expecting to surpass 30,000, covering nearly 70% of Salah's wages in just the first few days. Corporate interest has also spiked as companies look to capitalize on the "Salah-mania."
This transfer aligns with Dogan’s broader vision of balancing young prospects with high-profile stars to elevate the club's status. Following a third-place finish last season and a Turkish Cup victory, Trabzonspor aims to use Salah’s professionalism and global influence to boost both their league performance and European ambitions.
The 34-year-old Egyptian international has already made his debut, featuring as a substitute in a 1-1 draw against Kasimpasa. His home debut in Trabzon is highly anticipated this coming Sunday.