Dries Mertens has made an interesting statement over his future in soccer, as the Belgian would ‘never say never’ over a return to Napoli.
When Did Dries Mertens Leave Napoli?
In June 2013, Napoli signed Dries Mertens from PSV Eindhoven for around $12.5 million and the Belgian became one of the clubs’ greatest players of all-time.
During his time in Naples, Mertens contributed to 238 goals in 397 appearances (148 G + 90A) and won two Coppa Italias and the Supercoppa Italiana.
His time in Italy came to an end in August 2022 as Napoli declined the opportunity to extend the Belgian’s deal and he left as the clubs highest-goalscorer of all-time.
Mertens swapped Italy for Turkey as he signed for Galatasaray and the 38-year-old has been a huge success in Istanbul, contributing to 69 goals in 136 appearances (24G + 44A).
Despite his older age, Mertens was still on the top of his game during the 2024/25 campaign, providing 21 assists across all competitions – which was the ninth highest out of any player in the top divisions.
Mertens has won the league title in each of his three seasons in Turkey and won the double for the first time last season, highlighting how crucial he has been to Galatasaray.
His former side Napoli also found success last season, winning the league title for only the second time and have already made huge moves this summer handing Kevin De Bruyne an eight-figure signing on bonus to join.
Will Dries Mertens Return To Napoli?
At 38-years-old, a move back to one of Europe’s top five leagues would seem unlikely for Mertens, however, his deal in Turkey is set to expire at the end of June.
After initially agreeing an extension to June 2025 last year, the plan was for Mertens to retire in Istanbul and hang his boots up from the sport for good.
However, in a recent interview, the Belgian revealed that he might want to continue playing football and did not rule out a return to his former side and favorites to win the Serie A title next season on the best betting apps, Napoli.
Mertens said: “First of all, I want to rest a bit. Secondly: I want to be a better father. Thirdly: I might want to continue playing football, maybe here. I have not thought about it seriously, now I want to take some time to think. But you should never say never.”
“I am thinking about hanging up my boots. The idea of returning to Napoli in a different role does fascinate me.”
The Belgian was recently given a huge piece of recognition in Naples, becoming an honorary citizen of Naples and would be a fairytale ending to his illustrious career.
