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 intense expectations he will face after joining the Turkish club.

Mikel said Salah would receive strong backing from Trabzonspor’s passionate supporters but must consistently perform at a high level to maintain their support.

Salah joined Trabzonspor as a free agent following the termination of his contract with Liverpool at the end of the season.

The Egyptian forward received a huge welcome from thousands of Trabzonspor supporters at the airport following the announcement of his transfer.

Speaking to Turkish outlet Sabah, Mikel praised the passion surrounding the club and described the reception for Salah as extraordinary.

“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.

He described Trabzonspor as an excellent club located in a football-focused city where supporters are deeply passionate about the team.

Mikel said the number of fans who turned out to welcome Salah was unusual, even by Trabzonspor’s standards.

He also noted that the club’s social media engagement had increased significantly following the transfer.

The former Chelsea midfielder said Salah’s arrival could also prompt improvements to some of the club’s facilities.

Mikel, however, stressed that Salah should be prepared for the intense demands of Trabzonspor supporters.

“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,” he said.

Mikel expressed hope that Salah and his family would settle comfortably in the city and enjoy their time at the club.

He added that if Salah continues performing well and helping Trabzonspor win matches, he would quickly become a fan favourite.