Trabzonspor President Slams Istanbul Press Over Salah Transfer

Trabzonspor president Ertuğrul Dögan issued a pointed rebuttal to critics of the club’s acquisition of Egyptian star Mohamed Salah, telling exclusive interviewers from A Spor: “If an Istanbul-based team had completed this transfer, the city would be on fire by now.”

Salah’s Integration and Conduct

Dögan emphasized that Salah is not only fully settled at the Black Sea club but has immersed himself deeply in its culture and daily operations. “Mohamed Salah is extremely happy—contrary to what Istanbul press writes,” he stated. “He has integrated completely with the team; this phrase fits him perfectly.”

The president described Salah’s work ethic as exceptional: “From day one, he has assisted us in every way—without issue or obstacle. He is a true role model: first to arrive at training, last to leave. He plays a vital role in developing the club’s young players.”

Dögan added with evident admiration: “He loves the city and actively promotes it. We can’t even climb the hills—but he does. Masha’Allah.”

A Transfer Beyond Football

Dögan stressed that the signing transcends sport, serving as a global platform for Trabzon itself. “This deal was important—not just for football, but for the city’s international visibility,” he said.

He cited local resonance as motivation: “It mattered to me to see my children and fans in the streets watching rival clubs make big-star signings. We needed to respond.”

Referring to Salah as more than an athlete, Dögan declared: “We did not sign just a footballer—we signed a person, a distinguished personality. He is the greatest Muslim player in the world.”

Historical Precedents and Future Vision

The president drew parallels between Salah and other foreign professionals who left strong ethical impressions at Trabzonspor, naming Edin Visca, Nwankwo Kanu, and Marek Hamšík as examples of “highly disciplined young men who served as exemplary figures for those around them.”

Looking ahead, Dögan affirmed the club’s renewed financial footing and strategic ambition: “I have always said that when Trabzonspor stabilizes its economic position, it will compete across all fronts. We have now put our internal affairs in order—and, God willing, similar transfers will follow from this point onward.”

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