Thomas Reis reveals how Mohamed Salah will be used at Trabzonspor

Thomas Reis says Mohamed Salah will be given the freedom to express his attacking talent at Trabzonspor, while still being expected to contribute defensively.

Reis was appointed as the club’s new head coach ahead of Saturday’s Turkish league fixture against Galatasaray, the headline match of the sixth round.

Speaking at his introductory press conference, Reis said he had already spoken to Salah before taking charge.

“I spoke with Salah and we had a conversation. Every coach wants to work with a world-class player of Salah’s level,” he said.

However, Reis stressed that Trabzonspor’s success would depend on the collective efforts of the team rather than the individual qualities of one player.

“To win matches, you do not need only Salah. You need every player on the pitch to produce an outstanding performance,” he added. “Of course, we also expect defensive contributions from him. I am a coach who demands that from the team.”

Reis explained that a well-organised approach without the ball would help Salah conserve energy and make the most of his ability in attack.

“If we can defend well as a team, win the ball back early and maintain his physical condition on the pitch, we will be able to get the ball to him without tiring him,” he said. “Once he has the ball, we will naturally make use of his creativity and talent.”

The German coach also intends to create the conditions for Salah to attack isolated or disorganised areas of the opposition defence.

“If we organise our play well when we have possession and take advantage of a lapse in the opposition’s defence, he will be able to show his skills without becoming exhausted,” Reis said. “Of course, I will give him the necessary freedom in the attacking line.”

Before becoming Trabzonspor manager, Reis coached Hossam Abdel Meguid at Ludogorets. He subsequently left the Bulgarian club to take charge of Salah at Trabzonspor.

Salah held a meeting with Reis before the appointment was formally confirmed, and Turkish newspapers published a photograph of the pair during their discussion.

The Trabzonspor president has also said Salah is very happy at the club, contrary to reports in the Istanbul press.

Reis will lead the team for the first time against Galatasaray on Saturday. Reports indicate that he is expected to sign a one-season contract, with the option of extending it for a further campaign.

The Thomas Reis has previously worked in the Turkish league, having managed Samsunspor.

Trabzonspor began their search for a new head coach after Fatih Tekke left his position. The club are currently ninth in the table, with seven points from five matches.