Michael Owen: I thought Salah would stay at Liverpool or join a bigger European club

Mohamed Salah has finally settled on a new club after leaving Liverpool, but his decision to join Turkish Süper Lig side Trabzonspor has surprised many, including Michael Owen.

Michael Owen admitted that he was somewhat disappointed with Salah's new destination after the Liverpool legend confirmed his move to Trabzonspor.

Salah ended his nine-year career at Anfield with a move to Turkey. During his time at Liverpool, he became the club's third-highest goalscorer and was voted the fourth greatest player in the club's history. The 34-year-old forward was not short of options. Saudi Arabia had been viewed as a potential destination in recent years, and Al-Ittihad tried unsuccessfully to sign him as early as 2023. Major League Soccer was also once an option, with Sporting Kansas City unexpectedly emerging as one of the suitors.

Ultimately, Turkey became his next destination. Beşiktaş had been in contact with Salah in recent weeks and made him an offer, but Trabzonspor ultimately won the race, surprising many. Trabzonspor finished third in the Süper Lig last season, meaning they will have to compete in a playoff later this month to secure a Europa League spot. Many had expected that, if Salah remained in Europe, he would choose a club capable of playing in the Champions League.

Former Liverpool forward Owen, however, believed Salah might have stayed at Anfield following Arne Slot's appointment as manager. Owen said: "To be honest, I'm a bit surprised and a bit disappointed. I thought Salah might have stayed after Liverpool changed managers, so I'm not sure if his move to Turkey was agreed upon long ago. I'm also not sure if Saudi Arabia or MLS would have been options, especially the latter, where you see many top players playing."

On Wednesday, Salah was greeted by a large crowd of fans upon his arrival in Istanbul for his medical. He is expected to travel to Trabzon later the same day to complete the transfer. Reports indicate he will sign a two-year contract with the club. In a video released on the club's official channel, Salah said: "Trabzon, are you ready? I can hear you. See you soon."

A Liverpool news account stated: "It's certainly strange to see Salah sign for Trabzonspor, but even if Slot had been sacked, he never intended to stay at Liverpool. You wouldn't make a farewell video two months before the end of the season unless you were determined to leave. However, he could have joined a bigger club in Europe and perhaps played in the Champions League again. Nevertheless, we can only wish this true Liverpool legend all the best at his new club."

AF's PC site is now live! Browse all the latest news, comments, match details, and stats on your computer. Visit: www.allfootballapp.com