Sports Fan: How the Turquoise Coast Club Tamed a Soccer Star
Never before has a big name rejected Istanbul for Trabzon, but former Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah was offered more than riches. It began with a text sent during the World Cup.
Ertugrul Dogan, the president of Trabzonspor, messaged his manager Fatih Tekke, ‘do you want Mohamed Salah?’ Tekke’s response was immediate enthusiasm, though Trabzonspor’s initial push for Salhah went under the radar. For weeks, Besiktas looked most likely to land the former Liverpool striker.
In Turkish football, Istanbul's Big Three – Galatasaray, Fenerbahce and Besiktas – have long held a financial and cultural monopoly on the Süper Lig’s marquee signings. Trabzon is by no means minnows, part of the traditional Big Four alongside their Istanbul rivals. Yet, with devotion as their defining trait, Trabzon’s arrival thrust its city into global spotlight.
Why Salah Chose Trabzonspor?
The football-crazy port city on the eastern Black Sea coast lacks the cosmopolitan lifestyle Istanbul offers but possesses a fervent fan culture like nowhere else. Salah could easily have accepted lucrative proposals in the Saudi Pro League or Major League Soccer, but their fan culture pales by comparison.
Fans turned Trabzon airport into a sea of red flares and tens of thousands packed Papara Park for his signing ceremony.Trabzonspor’s Strategic Move
The club deployed their former winger Mahmoud Hassan – known as Trézéguet – as their secret operative. He spoke with Salah daily to help convince him to consider the move. Salah told the roaring crowd, ‘I came here to win trophies. I am here to bring titles to this club.’
Salah’s arrival represents a new chapter for the city that often feels politically and geographically sidelined.Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Salah choose Trabzonspor over Istanbul rivals?
Salah wanted to bring his talents to a dedicated fanbase rather than compete in a market already saturated by big clubs. Trabzon’s deep devotion made it an attractive option.