Salah phenomenon in Trabzon reaches beyond the pitch

Al Jazeera Arabic describes a “Salah phenomenon” in Trabzon whose reach extends beyond the pitch, from a pharaonic-style hat to air travel. Mohamed Salah’s arrival at Trabzonspor made an impact in Turkey’s top flight, while also stirring popular enthusiasm that has spread into tourism and commerce.

The Egyptian star leads the goalscoring standings on the pitch. Around the city, supporters are visiting places he likes to have their pictures taken, while souvenirs bearing his image are circulating. Direct flights between Cairo and Trabzon have also been launched, and travel agents are arranging packages that include match tickets and a visit to the “Salah rock”.

The spot has become a destination since the footballer posted a photo last month of himself sitting on a small rock. Located in an isolated elevated area more than an hour from Trabzon, it now draws supporters who recreate the pose. An image of Mohamed Salah sitting on the rock accompanies the account of the new attraction.

The enthusiasm is also visible in the city’s streets. Souvenirs and artworks featuring Salah have become widespread in Trabzon. Mural painter Yıldıray Yıldırım says he has received several requests to paint murals of the Egyptian star on the façades of shops and local establishments. A Trabzon team supporter has also displayed his admiration with sunglasses bearing the words “Mo Salah”.

Trabzonspor has also put a pharaonic-inspired hat on sale at its official TS Club stores. The design combines symbols of ancient Egypt with the club’s colours. It costs 1,699.9 Turkish lira, or 34.16 dollars. Turkish media reported that the hat followed a request from Salah; its design draws on the nemes headdress in burgundy and blue, with the club emblem on the front.

The enthusiasm comes after a sporting disappointment for Turkish supporters. Al Jazeera Arabic says Salah’s arrival gave them a morale boost after the national team took part in the World Cup for the first time in 24 years and left without scoring a goal. On Google Maps, the club’s stadium now bears the name “Mohamed Salah Mosque”, another sign of the player’s place in the city’s daily life.