Mohamed Salah has chosen Trabzonspor’s number 61 shirt, abandoning the number 11 he wore throughout his Liverpool career in a gesture carrying special significance for the Turkish city.
Images and video released by Trabzonspor on Wednesday showed the Egypt captain wearing the club’s shirt while travelling on a plane to Turkey. Salah is due to undergo a medical examination before completing the formalities of his move to the club, with the number 61 clearly visible on his back.
The decision immediately attracted attention because Salah had been closely associated with number 11 during his long spell at Liverpool. It was later clarified that 61 is far more than a squad number in Trabzon: it is a historic symbol of the city and refers to Trabzon’s provincial code in Turkey’s vehicle registration system.
Over the years, the number has become closely linked with local identity and belonging. It appears in the names of businesses and social media accounts across the city, while a Trabzonspor shirt bearing 61 holds particular importance for the club’s supporters.
The club documented Salah’s journey to Turkey in a video message aimed at its fans. In the footage, he said: “Trabzon, are you ready? I am here, see you soon… Wherever we are, Trabzon is here.”
Reports had previously suggested Salah would wear number 11 again after arriving at Trabzonspor. However, the club’s official photographs ended that speculation and confirmed that he had selected 61 instead.
His choice gives the move a symbolic dimension from the moment of his arrival, linking one of football’s most recognisable players with a number that represents the city’s identity beyond the sport.
Salah, 34, is beginning a new chapter with Trabzonspor after joining as a free agent following the end of his contract with Liverpool. The images were released as he travelled to Turkey to complete his medical and sign his official contract.
The number 61 is therefore expected to carry significance throughout his time at the club, not simply as the shirt worn by a new signing, but as a reference to the place he has joined. His first appearance for Trabzonspor has yet to take place, but his initial message to supporters has already been delivered through his choice of shirt.