When did Mohamed Salah first join the Premier League and how did It happen?

In January 2014, Mohamed Salah's career took a significant turn when he transferred from FC Basel to Chelsea FC, marking his first foray into the English Premier League. This move was not only a milestone for Salah but also a notable event in football, as he became the first Egyptian player to sign with the London-based club. Join us as we delve into the historical context and details surrounding Salah's initial Premier League transfer.

The Build-Up to the Transfer: Salah's Rise at FC Basel

Before his move to Chelsea, Salah had made a name for himself at FC Basel in Switzerland. Joining Basel in 2012, he quickly showcased his talent, contributing significantly to the team's success in both domestic and European competitions. His performances, particularly in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League, caught the attention of several top European clubs.

During his time at Basel, Salah was instrumental in securing back-to-back Swiss Super League titles. His speed, agility, and goal-scoring abilities made him a standout player, leading to increased interest from clubs across Europe. Notably, his impressive displays against English teams in European competitions highlighted his potential to succeed in the Premier League.

The Transfer Battle: Chelsea vs. Liverpool

In the 2013-2014 season, both Chelsea and Liverpool expressed strong interest in signing Salah. Liverpool had been monitoring him closely and were reportedly close to securing his signature. However, Chelsea's late intervention changed the course of events.

According to reports, a personal call from then-Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho played a pivotal role in persuading Salah to choose Stamford Bridge over Anfield. Mourinho's direct approach and assurance of Salah's role in the team were significant factors in his decision. On January 23, 2014, Chelsea announced that they had agreed on a deal with Basel to sign Salah for a fee reported to be in the region of £11 million.

The Signing: Salah Joins Chelsea

The transfer was completed on January 26, 2014, making Salah the first Egyptian player to sign for Chelsea. The move was seen as a strategic acquisition for the club, aiming to bolster their attacking options with a young and promising talent.

Upon joining, Salah was handed the number 15 shirt. His arrival added depth to Chelsea's squad, and there were high expectations for his integration into the team's attacking lineup.

Initial Challenges: Limited Opportunities at Stamford Bridge

Despite the excitement surrounding his signing, Salah found first-team opportunities limited at Chelsea. Competing with established players like Eden Hazard, Willian, and Andre Schürrle, he struggled to secure regular playing time.

During the remainder of the 2013-2014 season, Salah made 11 appearances for Chelsea, scoring two goals. His debut came on February 8, 2014, in a 3-0 victory against Newcastle United, where he came on as a substitute. He scored his first goal for the club on March 22, 2014, in a 6-0 win over Arsenal.

The following season saw even fewer opportunities for Salah, leading to loan spells with Fiorentina and later AS Roma, where he eventually secured a permanent move. These moves were instrumental in revitalizing his career, allowing him to gain the playing time and experience needed to develop further.

Reflecting on the Transfer: A Pivotal Moment in Salah's Career

While his time at Chelsea did not unfold as hoped, the transfer was a crucial learning experience for Salah. It exposed him to the demands of the Premier League and highlighted the importance of regular playing time for a developing player.

Salah's subsequent success, particularly with Liverpool, where he returned to the Premier League in 2017, underscores his resilience and determination. His journey from limited opportunities at Chelsea to becoming one of the Premier League's most prolific forwards is a testament to his growth and adaptability.

What You Should Know About Mohamed Salah's Transfer to Chelsea

• In January 2014, Mohamed Salah transferred from FC Basel to Chelsea FC for a reported fee of £11 million, becoming the first Egyptian player to sign with the club.
• Before the transfer, Salah had garnered attention with standout performances at FC Basel, particularly in European competitions.
• Both Chelsea and Liverpool were interested in signing Salah, but a personal call from Chelsea manager José Mourinho influenced his decision to join the London club.
• Despite high expectations, Salah found first-team opportunities limited at Chelsea, leading to loan spells with Fiorentina and AS Roma, where he revitalized his career.
• Salah's experience at Chelsea was a pivotal moment in his career, providing valuable lessons that contributed to his later success in the Premier League with Liverpool.