Humble Beginnings in Belgium
Dries Mertens was born in Leuven, Belgium, in 1987. Standing at just 5'7", many scouts initially doubted his potential. Yet his technical ability, vision, and creativity soon turned heads. Mertens began his youth career at Anderlecht but never made the senior team. Instead, he moved to Gent, where he faced similar challenges.
Determined to prove himself, Mertens dropped down a level to play for Eendracht Aalst on loan. It was there that his career began to gain momentum. He showcased his dribbling, agility, and flair, quickly becoming a standout performer.
Rising Through the Dutch Ranks
In 2007, Mertens joined AGOVV Apeldoorn in the Netherlands’ second division. There, he exploded onto the scene. His 15 goals and countless assists caught the eye of Eredivisie clubs. A move to FC Utrecht followed in 2009.
At Utrecht, Mertens refined his game. Playing as a left winger or attacking midfielder, he contributed 10 goals and several assists in his first top-flight season. His intelligence and energy on the field drew praise from fans and coaches alike. Bigger clubs began to take notice.
By 2011, Mertens signed for PSV Eindhoven. This was the turning point. Over two seasons, he scored 45 goals in all competitions. He helped PSV win the KNVB Cup and became one of the Eredivisie’s most electrifying players. His consistent performances put him on the radar of Europe’s elite clubs.
Making History at Napoli
In 2013, Dries Mertens made the leap to Serie A, signing with Napoli for around €9.5 million. Under Rafael Benítez, Mertens quickly became a fan favorite. His direct runs, smart passing, and lethal finishing made an immediate impact. Though he often played on the wing, he adapted quickly to Italian football’s tactical demands.
However, it was under Maurizio Sarri that Mertens truly evolved. In the 2016–17 season, Sarri converted him into a central striker following an injury to Arkadiusz Milik. The experiment worked better than anyone expected. Mertens ended that season with 34 goals in all competitions.
His movement, low center of gravity, and finishing made him unplayable at times. Despite not being a traditional No. 9, he used his speed and brain to dominate defenses. Napoli came close to winning Serie A, finishing just behind Juventus.
Napoli’s All-Time Leading Scorer
Over the next several seasons, Mertens continued to deliver. Whether under Sarri, Ancelotti, or Gattuso, he remained Napoli’s most reliable attacker. He could score from anywhere—inside the box, from distance, or with a clever chip.
In 2020, Mertens overtook Marek Hamšík to become Napoli’s all-time top scorer. This was a historic achievement. He surpassed club legends like Diego Maradona, Edinson Cavani, and Gonzalo Higuaín. The fans adored him, not just for his goals, but for his loyalty.
Despite interest from richer clubs, Mertens stayed in Naples for nearly a decade. His connection with the city, its people, and the club made him a symbol of passion and commitment.
International Career with Belgium
Mertens also enjoyed a long and successful career with the Belgian national team. He earned over 100 caps and scored key goals in major tournaments. While not always a starter, he was an important part of Belgium’s golden generation.
In the 2014 World Cup, he scored a dramatic late winner against Algeria. At Euro 2016, he played an important role in Belgium’s attacking setup. He was also part of the 2018 World Cup squad that finished third—the nation’s best-ever result.
His versatility allowed coaches to use him in various positions: winger, attacking midfielder, or even forward. No matter where he played, he brought energy and creativity.
A New Chapter in Turkey
In 2022, Mertens left Napoli and signed with Galatasaray. Though the move surprised some, he quickly proved his worth in the Turkish Süper Lig. He provided leadership, goals, and experience to a squad aiming to return to domestic dominance.
His debut season was strong. He scored important goals, created chances, and brought stability to Galatasaray’s attack. Fans embraced him immediately. Even in his mid-30s, Mertens showed that class and intelligence could still shine.
Playing Style and Strengths
Dries Mertens is not a traditional forward. He doesn’t dominate defenders physically. Instead, he wins with movement, speed, and smart decision-making. His low center of gravity allows him to change direction quickly. This makes him deadly in one-on-one situations.
He also excels at link-up play. Mertens often drifts into space to receive passes between the lines. His awareness and creativity help unlock tight defenses. And while he isn’t a pure striker, his finishing is clinical. He can score with both feet and isn’t afraid to shoot from distance.
Set pieces are another weapon in his arsenal. Whether taking corners, free kicks, or penalties, he delivers with precision.
Off the Pitch: Charisma and Loyalty
Fans love Mertens not just for his football, but also for his personality. He's charming, down-to-earth, and relatable. In Naples, he became known for his bond with the community. He supported local causes and embraced the city's culture.
He also has a sharp sense of humor, which made him a favorite in locker rooms and media circles. Despite his fame, Mertens never carried an ego. Teammates often spoke of his unselfish attitude and team-first mentality.
Legacy of a Belgian Icon
Dries Mertens leaves behind a legacy few can match. He became a cult hero in Naples and a respected figure across Europe. From the Dutch second division to Serie A stardom, his rise defied all odds.
He showed that heart, skill, and intelligence matter more than height or hype. As a late bloomer, his career inspires those told they're too small, too slow, or not flashy enough.
With over 300 career goals, multiple trophies, and countless magical moments, Mertens has secured his place in football history.
Final Thoughts
Dries Mertens’ story is about more than goals and assists. It’s about resilience, reinvention, and love for the game. Whether dazzling in Naples, grinding in the Eredivisie, or leading Galatasaray, he always played with joy and intelligence.
As he winds down his career, fans worldwide reflect on the magic he brought to the pitch. He wasn’t just a scorer—he was an artist. Dries Mertens may not have had the spotlight like some stars, but his impact was just as bright.
What Is a Drop Ball in Soccer?
Keep the conversation going! Follow Soccer Wizdom on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Youtube for more soccer insights and updates.