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Dia Saba’s No. 10 Jersey Row Fuels Rise at Amedspor
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Jersey Number Dispute Sparks Near Walkout at Amedspor
Days before the new season began, Israeli midfielder Dia Saba learned that the club’s newly signed forward Samuel Balla held a contractual clause guaranteeing the No. 10 shirt that Saba had been promised. Feeling the jersey was his, Saba told the technical staff he would refuse to play and asked to be left out of the squad. His agents intervened, persuading him to stay on the roster. On opening day, Saba scored two goals and celebrated by holding up both hands to signal the number 10, emphasizing that the number remained his personal claim.
Managerial Support and Player’s Rise in Turkey
The club’s Albanian manager—arriving from Belgium—quickly made Saba a favorite after early training sessions, granting him unlimited playing time provided he did not request substitution. This close coach-player relationship helped Saba abandon his walk-out threat and focus on the pitch. Within weeks, he became one of the most recognizable figures in the city, attracting crowds for photos and receiving special treatment at the local Ali Baba restaurant, where the owner now escorts him through a private back room.
Club’s Apology and Reconciliation
Following the incident, the Amedspor president publicly apologized for the handling of the jersey issue and held a personal conversation with Saba to express regret. The president’s statement affirmed that the club values Saba’s contribution and that the misunderstanding would not recur. Saba accepted the apology, indicating forgiveness while noting the episode remains memorable.
Impact on Saba’s Career and Future Prospects
Since the dispute, Saba has moved from hotel accommodation to a private villa and enjoys a prominent role in the Turkish league. His performances have drawn interest from several of Turkey’s top clubs, with speculation that a transfer could materialize next season. Despite his professional success, Saba’s family remains based in Dubai, and the distance continues to be a personal challenge. The jersey saga, combined with strong managerial backing and growing fan adulation, has solidified Saba’s status as a key talent at Amedspor and a potential target for larger Turkish teams.