A unique example of Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah’s popularity has emerged in the Turkish city of Trabzon, where an ordinary rock he once sat on has reportedly become a tourist attraction. According to international media reports, Salah was photographed sitting on a rock during a visit to a lush, mountainous area near Trabzon.
The photographs later went viral on social media, prompting large numbers of Salah’s fans to visit the spot and attach special significance to the rock where the football star had once sat. The influx of visitors has also led to the establishment of food and beverage stalls in the surrounding valley.
Arab media reports said Turkish football fans have begun associating the valley with Salah and referring to the location by his name. Locals have reportedly dubbed the rock “Salah Tashi” (Salah’s Rock), while a sign reading “Salah Plateau” has been installed at the site. Fans can be seen lining up to take photographs while recreating the pose Salah made while sitting on the rock.
Salah’s popularity in Turkey has reportedly grown further since he visited Trabzon. Large crowds of fans gathered at the airport to welcome him after he signed with Trabzonspor in August.
Meanwhile, Salah has continued to make headlines with his performances on the field. On Saturday, he scored a hat-trick and provided an assist in a 4-0 victory over Galatasaray, handing the club their first defeat of the season.
After spending nine years with Liverpool, the 34-year-old Salah reportedly signed a two-year contract with Trabzonspor this year. His annual salary is said to be €17 million, reportedly making him the highest-paid player in the Turkish Süper Lig. During his time at Liverpool, Salah won several major honours, including the Premier League and UEFA Champions League.