The special bond between Dia Saba and Amedspor fans took another heartwarming turn when the Israeli footballer visited Servan Dia Saba, the baby named after him, and his family. During the visit, he presented the infant with a gold necklace engraved with his name, in a gesture that touched the family and offered another example of the remarkable connection that has developed between the midfielder and supporters of the Turkish club.
The story first emerged after footage of the baby, born in the town of Ergani in Diyarbakır Province, circulated on Turkish social media. The newborn's identification bracelet bore the name "Servan Dia Saba," combining his first name with that of the Israeli star.
Saba has become one of Amedspor's most beloved figures after helping the club earn promotion to Turkey's top flight for the first time in its history. He also scored the team's first-ever goal in the top division. His popularity, however, extends beyond his performances on the pitch, with local fans finding extraordinary ways to express their appreciation.
"I feel respected here, and the people here love me," Saba said recently. "They show me this love every day and everywhere - in the media, on the street, at restaurants, wherever I go. Now I feel a greater responsibility to give something back to them for this love and for the support they show this club."
Saba has continued to make his mark on the pitch as well. In a 3-2 victory over Besiktas last month, he scored Amedspor's second goal in a prestigious win that sent the team to the top of the table ahead of the international break. He has already scored four goals in Turkey's top division this season.
This is not the first time Amedspor fans have honored the club's players by naming their children after them. Last month, reports emerged of a family from Diyarbakır who named their son after the club's striker, Mbaye Diagne. Local media also recalled an earlier case in which a child was named Ronaldo. Saba's visit to the baby who bears his name, and the gold necklace he presented to him, have added another memorable chapter to the growing list of tributes from the club's devoted supporters.