Trabzonspor complete signing of former Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah
Former Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has joined Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor after confirming his departure from Anfield earlier this year.
The 34-year-old departed English football following a difficult final season where he struggled to see eye to eye with former manager Arne Slot.
The appointment of new Reds boss Andoni Iraola did not result in a U-turn for the two-time Premier League winner.
The Egyptian was mobbed by passionate fans upon his arrival in Turkey to finalise the unexpected transfer.
Financial sacrifices and passion
Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan insists the prolific winger was not motivated by money when selecting his next destination.
According to the club chief, the veteran attacker rejected deals that were significantly more lucrative.
Dogan revealed the details of the negotiations to Turkish media.
“One of the contract offers he presented to us was four times the amount we offered. His intention was not financial; he wanted to experience the excitement and passionate love here.”
International connections
The Turkish club also benefited from a glowing recommendation provided by one of their former players.
Egypt team-mate Trezeguet gave a highly positive reference following his own successful spell in the Super Lig before moving to Al Ahly.
The new arrival joins a squad featuring familiar Premier League names, including former Southampton striker Paul Onuachu.
Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana is also spending a second consecutive season on loan with the club.
A new shirt number
The African football icon will leave behind his famous number 11 jersey for a fresh start in Turkey.
He will instead wear the number 10 shirt, mirroring the digit he dons for his national team.
This switch was facilitated by team-mate Ernest Muci, who voluntarily sacrificed the squad number to accommodate the signing.
Dogan praised the squad harmony already on display.
“I thank Muci regarding the jersey. Him voluntarily coming and handing over the jersey number to Salah was a very valuable stance.”