30.05.2025 22:30
Dries Mertens, who joined Galatasaray three seasons ago and made significant contributions to three championship titles, bid farewell to the fans in his last match.
At the beginning of the 2022/23 season, Dries Mertens, who transferred from Napoli to Galatasaray, bid farewell to the yellow-red team with the RAMS Başakşehir match.
THE CHANGE ANNOUNCEMENT WAS MADE BY HIS WIFE
Mertens, who scored a penalty goal in the 17th minute against RAMS Başakşehir, was substituted in the 79th minute. The star player left his place to Roland Sallai with great support on his shoulders. The announcement of Mertens' substitution was made by his wife, Katrin Kerkhofs. The yellow-red players lifted Mertens on their shoulders, threw him into the air, and expressed their gratitude to the player.
HE WON 5 TROPHIES
Mertens, who took the field for the 100th time in a Galatasaray jersey, scored a total of 25 goals. The experienced player celebrated championships with his team in 3 Süper Lig, one Ziraat Türkiye Kupası, and one Süper Kupa. The yellow-red fans displayed a banner that read, "Thank you for everything you have done for us" for Mertens.
GALATASARAY'S STATEMENT
Meanwhile, Galatasaray club made a social media post at the moment Mertens was substituted, bidding farewell to the Belgian player. Here is Galatasaray's post;
''Thank you, Dries…
Some goodbyes cannot be expressed in words…
When he arrived three years ago, Dries Mertens was not just a football player, but a true leader, a big brother, and a role model.
He was the man who changed the game with his courage, intelligence, and confident stance on the field. He took responsibility in difficult moments, guided the young players, and always sacrificed himself for the team… The one who was the happiest with his motivation from the sidelines…
Dries also touched our hearts off the field…
With his humility, sincerity, and smile…
He was one of those who believed the most that Galatasaray is more than just a club, a place of unity and togetherness.
And along with him, Kat and Ciro also became some of the warmest members of this family.
Kat's smiling face, Ciro's joy, and a smile…
They all made this story a whole.
As much as they loved this club, this city…
They were loved just as much.
Now it's time to say goodbye.
But your name, your memories, your leadership, and your humanity have already been written in golden letters in the history of this jersey, Dries.
Thank you for everything. We are glad you became one of us.
Hoping to see you again…''