Salah ‘will be a bridge’ between Egypt and Turkey, says Trabzonspor president

Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan says Mohamed Salah has created extraordinary excitement in Turkey following his move to the club after ending his historic spell with Liverpool.

The Egyptian forward’s arrival has generated huge interest among supporters, with Dogan describing the transfer as significant both on and off the pitch.

Speaking to ON Sport channel with journalist Mirihan Amr, Dogan said: “The Turkish people in Trabzon go to sleep and wake up to the name of Mohamed Salah, as the fans are in a special state of morale after the completion of the deal.”

Trabzon celebrate Salah arrival

Dogan said the club were enjoying the reaction to the signing and praised Salah’s personality as well as his achievements as a footballer.

“We are living these happy moments with great enthusiasm, as we believe that we have won a humanitarian deal for the best personality.”

The Trabzonspor president also described Salah as one of the world’s leading players and said the Egyptian had already made a positive impression among his new teammates.

“Salah is one of the most important players in the world, if not the best in the world, and since his first day in Trabzon, he has created a wonderful atmosphere with his friends and teammates in the Turkish team.”

Salah expected to strengthen Egypt-Turkey ties

Dogan believes the transfer could have an influence beyond football, particularly on relations between Egypt and Turkey.

“Mohamed Salah’s transfer to us supports us in many things outside of football, and it is a joy for the Islamic world, and it will positively affect us in all areas.”

He added that Salah could help strengthen the connection between the two countries while also increasing interest in Trabzon among Egyptian supporters and tourists.

“Salah will be a bridge for rapprochement and strengthening relations between Egypt and Turkey. We are experiencing a state of passion and enthusiasm, and there is no doubt that his impact on the football side will be very significant.”

Egyptian tourists expected in Trabzon

The Trabzonspor president also believes Salah’s presence could increase tourism from Egypt, with supporters potentially travelling to Turkey to watch the forward in action.

“I expect an increase in the presence of Egyptian tourists in Trabzon, to watch Mohamed Salah in the matches.”

Salah’s arrival has therefore created expectations that extend beyond his contribution on the pitch, with Trabzonspor hoping his popularity can boost the club’s profile and strengthen its links with Egypt and the wider Islamic world.