Tekke's Bold Decision on Salah as Trabzonspor Faces Kasimpasa

Fatih Tekke has laid down an early marker. On the opening weekend of the Turkish Super Lig, the Trabzonspor boss has chosen to start the season with his new Egyptian signing Mohamed Salah on the bench for the trip to Kasimpasa.

All eyes will be on how that decision plays out in Istanbul, in a match officiated by Gorkan Hasova.

Strong XI, big-name option in reserve

Tekke has gone with a starting XI built on familiarity and balance rather than immediate star power. According to Gazete Pencere, Trabzonspor line up with Onana in goal, a side anchored by Savic and Nwakaeme, with Pina and Mustafa also involved from the outset.

Bouchouari, Aral and Malinovskyi form the core in midfield, tasked with setting the tempo and supplying the attacking line of Metehan, Savio and towering striker Onuachu. It is a side that suggests Tekke wants control first, fireworks later — with Salah waiting as a potentially game-changing substitute.

Kasimpasa’s answer

Kasimpasa are not easing into this campaign either. They start with Andreas between the posts, and a back line featuring Arous, Eli, Yesin and Wink. Baldursson and Mendes bring industry and bite, while Diabate and Murtaza offer threat from advanced areas.

Guven and Bendezik complete the XI, giving the hosts a blend of mobility and physical presence as they look to unsettle Trabzonspor early.

Champions stumble, door opens

Reigning champions Galatasaray have already dropped points, held to a 2-2 draw by Corum in their opener. That result nudges the door open for rivals to seize an early psychological edge.

If Tekke’s gamble with Salah pays off and Trabzonspor start with a statement away win, the tone of this Super Lig season could shift before the first weekend is even done.