Mohamed Salah ‘went to the right league’, says Al-Kholood owner after Trabzonspor move

Al-Kholood owner Ben Harburg has mocked Mohamed Salah’s move to Turkish club Trabzonspor, saying the Egypt forward has chosen “the right league” after deciding against a transfer to the Saudi Pro League.

Harburg responded to a post about Salah’s transfer, published by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, with a sarcastic comment aimed at Saudi football.

“Mohamed Salah went to the right league, the Saudi Pro League is not the right place to spend a retirement holiday,” Harburg wrote.

Salah has arrived in Turkey to complete his move to Trabzonspor and wore the club’s shirt for the first time shortly after landing. He was pictured in the number 61 jersey, which has a particular significance for the Turkish club and the city it represents.

The number 61 matches the vehicle registration plates used in Trabzon and has gradually become a symbol of the city. Trabzonspor previously described the number as the most symbolic part of its historic shirt.

It remains unclear whether Salah will wear number 61 throughout the season or whether it was used only for the welcome ceremony. The forward has traditionally been associated with the number 11, and that shirt could still be assigned to him once the transfer is formally completed.

Salah also addressed Trabzonspor supporters after arriving in Turkey.

“Trabzon, are you ready? I can hear you, and I will see you for the first time,” he said in a message to the club’s fans.

The 34-year-old is due to undergo a medical examination in Trabzon before signing his contract with the Turkish side. His move is expected to be for two seasons.

Salah will reportedly earn 17m euros (£14.7m) per season, in addition to other clauses and bonuses included in the agreement.

Harburg’s comments focus on the contrast between Salah’s decision to join Trabzonspor and the growing profile of the Saudi Pro League, where a number of high-profile players have moved in recent years. His remarks were made in direct response to the announcement of Salah’s impending switch to Turkey.

The deal has not yet been completed, with the medical and contract signing still to take place. Once those steps are finished, Salah will formally become a Trabzonspor player, although the club has not yet confirmed which shirt number he will use for the campaign.

The first shirt he wore after arriving was number 61, reflecting Trabzon’s identity and the importance attached to the number by Trabzonspor. Whether that gesture becomes a permanent part of his time at the club will be decided after his arrival formalities are concluded.