Trabzonspor president hails Mohamed Salah as ‘greatest Muslim player’ after free transfer

Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan has described Mohamed Salah as “the greatest Muslim player in the world” after the Egypt captain joined the Turkish club on a free transfer following the end of his contract with Liverpool.

Salah completed his move to Trabzonspor several weeks ago, signing a two-year contract in one of the most prominent deals of the summer transfer window. The club hopes his arrival will help them challenge for domestic and European honours.

Dogan also revealed details of the negotiations that led to the transfer, in comments reported by French publication Foot Mercato.

During the talks, Salah asked the Trabzonspor president: “Why should I choose Trabzonspor now?”

Dogan said he responded by emphasising the relationship between the club and its supporters.

“You will get to know a group of fans unlike any you have seen before, and you will feel the real love these people have for the club,” he told the former Liverpool forward.

According to Dogan, Salah experienced that support immediately after arriving in Turkey. About 35,000 fans gathered to welcome him, producing what the president described as an exceptional scene.

The Trabzonspor president said the signing was not based solely on Salah’s contribution on the pitch. He presented the transfer as part of a longer-term plan built around recruiting and developing young talent, while also using the experience of senior players within the dressing room.

“Mohamed Salah is the greatest Muslim player in the world, and he is an influential role model,” Dogan said.

“We want him to be an example for young players because of his professionalism and his behaviour on and off the pitch.”

Salah’s move ended his spell with Liverpool and represents a major change in the career of one of the most recognisable players in world football. His time at Liverpool established him as a leading figure in the Premier League and as captain of the Egypt national team.

Trabzonspor are now hoping his experience, reputation and performances can support their ambitions during his two-year stay. The club also expects his influence away from matches to assist the development of its younger players.

Dogan’s comments underline the importance Trabzonspor attach to Salah beyond his role as a forward. The president believes the Egyptian can help shape the club’s culture, attract attention to its project and provide an example for emerging players.

The arrival of Salah has also strengthened the connection between the club and its supporters, with the large welcome in Turkey reflecting the excitement surrounding the transfer. For Trabzonspor, his signing combines immediate sporting expectations with a wider strategy focused on youth development and the influence of experienced footballers.