Mohamed Salah targets Europa League lift after underwhelming Trabzonspor debut

Mohamed Salah, who recently joined Trabzonspor on a free transfer, will have the opportunity to lead the Turkish club into the league phase of the Europa League on Thursday. The 34-year-old, known for his prolific career in top European competitions, started on the bench in Trabzonspor's 1-1 draw against Kasimpasa earlier this month.

Despite creating several chances, Salah was unable to secure a second goal for his side. Trabzonspor now faces Hungarian side Ferencvaros in the first leg of a Europa League play-off at their home ground. Salah, primarily associated with playing in the UEFA Champions League, has scored from the penalty spot while playing for Liverpool in the final against Tottenham Hotspur in 2019.

He has made 37 appearances in the Europa League for Basel, Roma, Fiorentina, and Liverpool, netting 10 goals and providing 10 assists. Trabzonspor's coach, Fatih Tekke, emphasized the importance of the Europa League match against Ferencvaros, stating that the opponent is a significant step up for their team. The club's president, Ertugrul Dogan, praised Salah's impact since his arrival and highlighted the excitement his presence has brought to the city of Trabzon.

Meanwhile, a potential reunion between Salah and former Liverpool teammate Darwin Nunez appears unlikely, as Nunez is considering a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Diriyah. Trabzonspor, a seven-time Turkish champion, finished third in the Super Lig last season and won the Turkish Cup.