Fabinho reunites with Mohamed Salah at Trabzonspor in surprise transfer

Fabinho, 32, joins Trabzonspor on a reported two-year deal after a successful period in Saudi Arabia. He signed for Al-Ittihad in 2023 following five trophy-laden years at Liverpool, where he won the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup. In his first season in Jeddah, he helped Al-Ittihad secure the Saudi Pro League title, cementing his reputation as a reliable holding midfielder.

His departure from Al-Ittihad comes amid a broader reshuffle in the Saudi league, with several high-profile players moving on as clubs adjust their squads under the country’s evolving football strategy. Trabzonspor, currently mid-table in the Süper Lig, has been aggressive in the transfer market, adding Salah in early 2026 and now Fabinho to create a familiar Liverpool axis.

Mohamed Salah, 34, left Liverpool in 2025 after a record-breaking career at Anfield, choosing Trabzonspor as his next destination. The pair played together for five seasons at Liverpool, forming part of a midfield that included Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcântara, and James Milner. Their chemistry was a key factor in Liverpool’s success under Jürgen Klopp, and Trabzonspor manager Abdullah Avcı has expressed confidence that the reunion will bolster the team’s midfield stability and attacking threat.

The move has been met with mixed reactions. Some analysts question whether Fabinho can maintain his form at age 32, especially after a season in a less competitive league. Others point to his experience and leadership as assets for a Trabzonspor side aiming to challenge for European qualification. The Turkish club has not disclosed financial terms, but reports suggest the fee is modest, reflecting Fabinho’s age and contract situation.

Fabinho’s arrival also adds depth to a midfield that has struggled with consistency this season. Trabzonspor’s fan base has welcomed the signing, hoping the Brazilian’s composure and defensive discipline will allow Salah more freedom in attack. The duo will be expected to deliver immediate results as the club pushes for a top-four finish.

Why This Matters

The reunion of Fabinho and Salah could reignite a partnership that was instrumental in Liverpool’s golden era, potentially elevating Trabzonspor’s performance and commercial appeal.
The transfer highlights the growing trend of veteran European stars moving to Turkey, which is becoming a competitive alternative to the Saudi Pro League for experienced players.
For Fabinho, this move represents a chance to prove he can still perform at a high level after a less demanding stint in Saudi Arabia, with implications for his legacy and future career moves.

Background

Fabinho joined Liverpool from Monaco in 2018 for £43.7 million, quickly establishing himself as a key component of Klopp’s midfield. He won six major trophies with the club, including the 2019 Champions League and 2020 Premier League title. In 2023, he moved to Al-Ittihad in a deal worth around £40 million, as part of the Saudi league’s aggressive recruitment drive. He won the Saudi Pro League in his first season but struggled with injuries and form in the second.

Mohamed Salah left Liverpool in 2025 after spending eight seasons at the club, becoming its all-time top scorer in European competitions. His surprise move to Trabzonspor was seen as a strategic choice to play in a competitive European league while remaining in a familiar time zone. The club finished 5th in the Süper Lig last season and is investing heavily to close the gap to Istanbul giants Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Beşiktaş.

Key Perspectives

Trabzonspor management: The signing is a statement of intent to build a team around experienced, proven winners. They believe Fabinho’s leadership and tactical discipline will complement the club’s younger talents. Skeptics (football analysts): Some question whether Fabinho’s best years are behind him. The Saudi league’s lower intensity may have dulled his sharpness, and adapting to the fast-paced Süper Lig could be a challenge at 32. Liverpool fans: Many view the reunion with nostalgia but also see it as a reminder of the club’s transition. The pair’s departure from Anfield symbolizes the end of an era, though supporters wish them well.

What to Watch

Fabinho’s minutes and performance in the first few Süper Lig matches, especially against top sides like Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe.
The chemistry between Fabinho and Salah in their first few games together — do they quickly rekindle their Liverpool connection?
Trabzonspor’s league position by mid-season, as the club targets European competition spots.

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