Trabzonspor president hails Mohamed Salah as ‘greatest Muslim player in the world’

Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan has described Mohamed Salah as “the greatest Muslim player in the world” after revealing details of the discussions that led to the Egyptian forward joining the Turkish club.

Salah moved to Trabzonspor on a free transfer following the end of his contract with Liverpool, signing a two-year deal in one of the most notable transfers of the summer.

Dogan said the club’s decision to sign the Egypt captain was about more than his ability on the pitch, with Trabzonspor viewing the experienced forward as an important figure in its long-term plans.

Salah questioned why he should join

According to statements reported by Foot Mercato, Dogan recalled a conversation with Salah during negotiations in which the Egyptian asked: “Why should I choose Trabzonspor now?”

The Trabzonspor president said he responded by highlighting the club’s passionate support.

“You will get to know a group of fans the likes of which you have never seen before, and you will feel the true love that these people have for the club.”

Salah subsequently experienced that support for himself when he arrived in Türkiye, with around 35,000 supporters gathering to welcome the former Liverpool forward.

Trabzonspor want Salah to inspire young players

Dogan said the signing forms part of a broader strategy centred on developing young talent while using experienced players to provide guidance within the dressing room.

He believes Salah’s professionalism and conduct make him particularly suited to that role.

“Mohamed Salah is the greatest Muslim player in the world, and he is an influential role model. We want him to be a role model for young players thanks to his professionalism and behavior on and off the field.”

For Salah, the move represents a new chapter after his long spell at Liverpool, where he established himself as one of the leading African players of his generation.

Egypt captain faces fresh challenge in Türkiye

The two-year contract gives Salah the opportunity to lead Trabzonspor’s ambitions both domestically and in European competition.

The Turkish club will hope the Egyptian’s experience, goals and leadership can help them compete for major honours while also providing a model for the younger players they are seeking to develop.

For African football, the move also keeps one of the continent’s biggest stars at the centre of attention as Salah begins a new chapter in his career.