Muhammad Salah unexpectedly joins Trabzonspor

Having ended his spell at Liverpool, Muhammad Salah has put all speculation about his future to rest by signing a contract with Turkish Super League club Trabzonspor. The Egyptian star’s unexpected transfer caused a major stir in the football world and immediately attracted media attention. Goal.com reports on this.

According to talkSPORT, several clubs from Europe and the Middle East had shown interest in the forward after he parted ways with Liverpool at the end of last season. Beşiktaş were initially seen as the leading contenders, but negotiations broke down due to financial difficulties.

Record salary and a new challenge

Trabzonspor’s management presented an attractive offer worth €17 million per year to bring the experienced footballer to the club. As a result of the financial agreement, Salah became the highest-paid player in the Turkish league.

After the experienced player signed a two-year deal, the transfer was officially announced and he appeared in the team’s new kit. However, fans were captivated not only by the transfer itself but also by the number on his new shirt.

A number with cultural significance

The forward, who was accustomed to wearing No. 11 at Liverpool and No. 10 for Egypt, chose No. 61 at his new club. The number is the regional code of Trabzon and carries deep symbolic significance in local culture.

The number is so important that local supporters turn the 61st minute of every match into a special show, filling the stadium with fireworks and passionate chants. Several footballers had worn the number before Salah.

It is not yet clear whether No. 61 will remain his official squad number throughout the season or was chosen solely for the presentation ceremony. Trabzonspor regularly shared details on social media, including the player’s arrival time at Istanbul Airport and information about the transfer.