Besiktas-supporting minister admits disappointment over Salah’s Trabzonspor transfer

Turkish Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Ozdemir Goktas has admitted her disappointment after Egyptian star Mohamed Salah completed his move to Trabzonspor instead of her beloved Besiktas.

The minister, a well-known supporter of the Istanbul club, had previously expressed hope that Salah would join Besiktas when speculation linked the Egypt captain with a move to Turkey.

Speaking at an event following the completion of the transfer, Goktas acknowledged her disappointment but welcomed the arrival of one of African football’s biggest stars to the Turkish league.

“I am disappointed… Just a week ago we were talking about it, and it was said that Trabzonspor was about to sign him.”

Minister had hoped for Besiktas move

According to Turkish media reports, Goktas publicly backed the idea of Salah joining Besiktas only days before Trabzonspor finalised the deal.

At the time, she said: “I hope Salah joins Besiktas.”

However, after the transfer was officially confirmed, the minister put club rivalries aside and stressed that Salah’s arrival would be a major boost for Turkish football.

“At least he is coming to Türkiye and will raise our flag. Trabzonspor is ours, and Besiktas is ours, and may the best team win.”

Turkish fans welcome Egyptian star

Goktas also highlighted Salah’s popularity in Turkey and wished the forward success in his new chapter.

“The Turkish people love Salah. We wished he would wear the Besiktas jersey, and now he is wearing the Trabzon jersey. We hope his path is open and that he performs well here.”

Salah’s move has generated huge excitement across the country, with supporters eager to see one of Africa’s greatest players in action in the Turkish Super Lig.

Grand unveiling for Salah

The Egypt captain has signed a two-year contract with Trabzonspor, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2028.

Following the announcement, Salah was unveiled in front of supporters wearing the club’s iconic number 10 shirt alongside Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan.

The presentation ceremony attracted worldwide attention and marked the beginning of a new era for both the player and the Turkish club, which hopes Salah’s arrival will help restore its status among the country’s elite teams.