The iconic former Liverpool forward left the club after nine years this summer.
Mohamed Salah has revealed what convinced him to make the surprise move to Trabzonspor this summer, with the former Liverpool forward admitting the ambition of the Turkish club’s president played a major role in his decision.
The Egyptian superstar brought an end to his remarkable nine-year spell on Merseyside before completing a move to Trabzonspor, embarking on a new chapter in his career after winning almost every major honour available during his time with Liverpool.
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Speaking to Trabzonspor’s official club channels, Salah explained that he was immediately excited when he first learned of the club’s interest.
“When I heard the club was interested, automatically, I was very excited,” Salah said. “I checked some places, and the best food probably so I can also enjoy myself! This was the first thing I did once I knew the club was interested.”
However, while the prospect of experiencing a new country and its culture appealed to him, Salah revealed that it was the club’s ambitions which ultimately convinced him to make the move.
“I think the club president’s ambition and what he is trying to build with the club, that’s what convinced me,” he explained.
Salah also reflected on his nine years at Liverpool and the incredible relationship he developed with supporters during his time at Anfield.
“I came from a place in Liverpool where the people love me, they always show me love and respect. I’d been there for nine years,” Salah said.
The 34-year-old admitted that the reception promised to him by Trabzonspor’s president was also a major factor, with supporters making an immediate impression upon his arrival.
“What the president said about the love I would see here, it was in my head and I would love to see that, which is what happened when I arrived in the airport. It was incredible. And also at the stadium was incredible.”
Salah’s comments underline just how important the connection between a player and supporters remains to him, particularly after spending such a significant period of his career at Liverpool.
The forward has now swapped the expectation of Anfield for a different challenge in Turkey, but his ambitions have certainly not diminished despite entering another stage of his career.
Ultimately, though, Salah’s desire to compete for more silverware proved decisive.
“The main thing that convinced me was that he really wanted to win something with the team,” he added.
“I won many things in my career and I want a new challenge so that’s why I’m here. I’m really hoping we can win something special, especially in Europe, and hopefully the league as well.”
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