Mohamed Salah Wears Symbolic Number 61 Shirt Upon Trabzonspor Transfer
Former Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah has completed a high-profile transfer to Turkish Süper Lig club Trabzonspor, making waves with his arrival attire ahead of the 26-27 season. Boarding his flight to Turkey, the Egyptian winger was pictured sporting Trabzonspor's claret and blue home kit customized with the name M. SALAH and the number 61 on the back in gold lettering.
The choice of number 61 raised immediate curiosity among fans accustomed to seeing Salah wear number 11 at Liverpool and 10 for Egypt. However, the number holds immense cultural significance in Trabzon, as 61 is the province's official vehicle registration plate code. Trabzonspor supporters also famously celebrate during the 61st minute of every home match with loud chants and celebrations, making the number a fitting tribute to his new club's identity.
While Salah wore the number 61 shirt for his arrival journey and announcement video, reports indicate that the gesture is purely symbolic for his unveiling. He is expected to select a traditional squad number for official matches, but his respectful nod to Trabzon's heritage has already resonated strongly with local supporters.
Adidas Argentina Messi Farewell Kit Teased
Adidas and the Argentine Football Association have teased a special-edition commemorative jersey celebrating Lionel Messi for his final appearance with the national team. Following the announcement of his retirement from international duty after a legendary career spanning 207 caps and 125 goals, Messi is set to wear the bespoke design in his farewell match against Benin at the Estadio Monumental on October 6, 2026.
The unique kit departs from the traditional striping format, opting for a sky-blue base accented by a single broad white central stripe. Tonal rays inspired by the Sun of May radiate across the front and back of the torso. In a rare personal touch, Messi's signature 'M' logo replaces the traditional Adidas performance logo on the right chest in metallic gold, balanced by the gold-accented three-star Argentina crest on the left. The crew-neck collar and sleeve cuffs are finished in black with sleek gold edging.
On the reverse, the shirt features gold 'MESSI 10' printing framed by the radiant sunburst motif, topped by a small Sun of May emblem just below the rear collar. Messi previewed the shirt on social media with the message "One last match... A jersey for a lifetime," offering a fitting tribute as he prepares to close his historic international chapter.