Dries Mertens Announces Retirement After Illustrious Career

Europe 23 June 2025 at 11:56

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

Belgian star Dries Mertens's officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 38, ending glittering career that spanned over decade across Europe's top leagues.

"One Last Game"

In heartfelt video message addressed to former Napoli teammate Marek Hamsík, who's organizing farewell match next month, Mertens said:

"I'll retire from football but I’ll wear my boots one last time for you"

He added:

"I can’t wait to play my final match"

A Career Etched in Goals

Mertens began his professional journey with FC Utrecht in 2009 before starring for PSV Eindhoven (2011 – 2013). His legacy, however was cemented at Napoli where he became the club’s all time top scorer with 148 goal in 397 appearances between 2013 & 2022.

He concluded his career with two solid seasons at Galatasaray, helping the Turkish giants both domestically and in europe.

Golden Generation Icon

Internationally Mertens was part of Belgium’s famed golden generation, earning 109 cap and scoring 21 goal for the Red Devils.