Mohamed Salah’s unveiling at Trabzonspor sparked immediate excitement among supporters, but it was another detail that quickly captured attention.
Instead of the famous No. 11 shirt he made iconic during nine unforgettable years at Liverpool, the Egyptian legend appeared wearing No. 61 a choice that left many wondering whether he had adopted one of football’s most unusual squad numbers.
The answer lies not in football tradition, but in the identity of Trabzonspor itself. for people in Trabzon, 61 is the city’s telephone area code and has long become a powerful symbol of local identity, pride and belonging.
The number appears across businesses, souvenirs, vehicle registrations and supporter culture, making it inseparable from both the city and its football club.
The famous 61st-minute tradition
Every home match reaches a unique crescendo in the 61st minute, when Papara Park erupts in a spectacular display of fireworks, confetti and deafening chants celebrating the city and the club.
The tradition has become one of Turkish football’s most recognizable spectacles, creating an atmosphere many visiting teams describe as unforgettable.
It is a ritual that reflects the fierce bond between Trabzonspor and one of Turkey’s most passionate fan bases.
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Despite the photographs from his arrival, it remains unclear whether Salah will actually wear No. 61 during competitive matches.
The shirt may simply have been used during his unveiling as a symbolic gesture introducing one of world football’s biggest stars to Trabzonspor’s culture.
The club is yet to officially confirm his permanent squad number for the new season
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By placing No. 61 on Salah’s back during his unveiling, Trabzonspor sent a clear message that this was more than the signing of a global superstar. It was an invitation for one of Africa’s greatest footballers to embrace the history, traditions and identity of the Black Sea club from his very first day.
Whether or not Salah ultimately keeps the number when the season begins, it has already achieved its purpose.
