Transfer: ‘They’ll Turn On You Quickly’ – Obi Mikel Warns Salah About Trabzonspor

Former Trabzonspor midfielder, John Obi Mikel, has warned Mohamed Salah about the high expectations he will face following his transfer to the Turkish club.

Mikel said Salah will receive strong support from Trabzonspor’s passionate fans, but stressed that the Egyptian forward must consistently perform at a high level to maintain their backing.

Salah joined Trabzonspor as a free agent after leaving Liverpool at the end of the season.

Following the announcement of his transfer, thousands of Trabzonspor supporters reportedly gathered at the airport to welcome the former Liverpool star.

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Speaking to Turkish outlet Sabah, Mikel described the reception as remarkable and highlighted the passion of the club’s supporters.

“Salah has his reasons for moving there; is it for football or financial incentives? If we consider finances, surely Saudi Arabia would be the better option,” Mikel said.

“Trabzonspor is an excellent club, and the people are passionate about football. It is a football-centric city.

“Trabzonspor is a place where, as soon as a transfer is made and announced, fans flock to the airport to welcome the player, regardless of who it is.

“However, this time was unique; thousands of people came out to greet Mo Salah, and it was absolutely astonishing.

“I believe the entire stadium was filled for his announcement. It was unbelievable. The club’s social media presence also surged dramatically.”

Mikel, who remains fond of Trabzonspor and the city, also spoke about the club’s facilities and joked that some adjustments might be needed to accommodate a player of Salah’s profile.

“Knowing the football club, I am aware of the quality of the training facilities, the dressing rooms, and the showers; they may need to make adjustments for Mo Salah,” he added.

The former Chelsea midfielder, however, warned Salah that the club’s passionate supporters can quickly change their attitude if results and performances are not good enough.

“No disrespect to Trabzonspor; it is a fantastic football club with an incredible fan base, and the individuals who manage the club and the city are commendable.

“The people in the city will worship you if you’re playing well and winning games. They turn on you quickly, they don’t care who you are or where you are from.

“I hope it works out well for him and his family, that they feel comfortable and enjoy the city. Because one thing is for sure, if he keeps performing and playing well for that city, they would absolutely worship him,” he stated.