Mohamed Salah wears iconic number 61 shirt as Trabzonspor move nears

Mohamed Salah has worn Trabzonspor’s number 61 shirt after arriving in Turkey to complete his move to the club.

The Egyptian forward put on the Trabzonspor shirt for the first time on the plane shortly after reaching the country. His arrival is part of the final stages of a transfer which will see him join the Turkish club, subject to a medical and the signing of his contract.

The number 61 has particular significance in Trabzon. It represents the vehicle registration plates used in the city and, over time, has become closely associated with Trabzon and its identity.

Trabzonspor previously described the number 61 shirt as the “most symbolic piece” of its historic kit. Salah’s decision to wear it on his first appearance with the club therefore carries a strong connection to the city he is preparing to represent.

It remains unclear whether Salah will wear number 61 throughout the season or whether it was chosen only for the welcoming ceremony. The club has not yet revealed whether he will instead take the number 11 shirt, which has become closely associated with him during his career.

Salah addressed Trabzonspor supporters in a message shared ahead of his arrival. He said: “Trabzon, are you ready? I can hear you, and I will see you for the first time.”

The 34-year-old is due to undergo a medical examination in Trabzon before completing the formalities of his move. He will then sign a two-year contract with the Turkish club.

Under the terms reported, Salah will earn 17m euros per season, with additional clauses and bonuses included in the agreement.

The move has not yet been formally completed. Salah’s medical and the signing of the contract are the remaining steps outlined before he officially joins Trabzonspor.

For now, the number 61 shirt has provided the clearest visual indication of his impending arrival. Wearing it immediately after reaching Turkey has also linked his first moments with the club to one of Trabzonspor’s most recognisable symbols.

Salah’s usual number 11 remains a possibility for the season, but the club has yet to confirm which shirt he will wear on a permanent basis. Until that decision is announced, the number 61 shirt will remain associated with his introduction to Trabzonspor and the city of Trabzon.