Dries Mertens, a veteran Belgian player, has decided to hang up his boots at 38. After representing Galatasaray for the last three seasons, Mertens announced his retirement. He’s not going out without one last kick, though – he’s promised to lace up his cleats one more time for a special occasion.
Mertens made the announcement in a video message to his old friend Marek Hamsik, with whom he shared a dressing room at Napoli. Hamsik is organizing a charity match in July, and Mertens has agreed to make a final appearance. The Belgian forward had a storied career, playing for clubs like Anderlecht, Gent, Eendracht Aalst, AGOVV Apeldoorn, Utrecht, PSV, and Napoli, where he spent nine seasons.
As a Belgian international, Mertens earned 109 caps and scored 21 goals. His last appearance for the Red Devils was in December 2022, at the World Cup in Qatar. With a career spanning over two decades, Mertens has left his mark on the football world.
Looking back on his career
Mertens’ retirement marks the end of an era for Belgian football. He will be remembered for his skill on the pitch and his dedication to the sport. As he prepares to take the field one last time, fans around the world will be watching to bid farewell to a true legend.
Career highlights
Some of the key moments in Mertens’ career include:
- 109 appearances for Belgium
- 21 goals scored for the national team
- 9 seasons with Napoli
- Clubs represented: Anderlecht, Gent, Eendracht Aalst, AGOVV Apeldoorn, Utrecht, PSV, Galatasaray
Mertens’ legacy will continue to inspire future generations of footballers. His contributions to the sport will not be forgotten, and his final match will be a celebration of his achievements.