Belgian football icon Dries Mertens has officially announced his retirement from professional football, bringing down the curtain on a storied career that spanned nearly two decades. The 38-year-old forward shared the emotional news in a heartfelt video posted on social media on Sunday, just days before his contract with Turkish giants Galatasaray is set to expire at the end of June.
Though he’s stepping away from the professional game, Mertens will make one final appearance on the pitch this July—fittingly, in a special exhibition match organized by his longtime friend and former Napoli teammate, Marek Hamsik. It’s a farewell gesture to the fans and clubs that defined his extraordinary journey.
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Mertens leaves behind a remarkable legacy, particularly at Napoli, where he became the club’s all-time leading goalscorer with 148 goals across all competitions. During his time in Naples, he etched his name into club history by helping the team win two Coppa Italia trophies and capturing the hearts of fans with his creative flair, tenacity, and consistency.
Following his departure from Napoli, Mertens joined Galatasaray, where he quickly found success again. He played a pivotal role in helping the club secure three consecutive Turkish Super Lig titles, continuing to deliver impactful performances even in the twilight of his career.
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On the international stage, Mertens was a key figure for Belgium’s golden generation. He earned 109 caps for the Red Devils, scoring 21 goals. His last appearance came at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where Belgium faced a disappointing early exit in the group stage.
With his retirement, football bids farewell to one of its most beloved and consistent forwards—an athlete who defied expectations, broke records, and left an indelible mark on the clubs and countries he represented. As Mertens steps away from the professional arena, his legacy as a humble leader, fan favorite, and goal-scoring maestro will endure for years to come.
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