20.03.2025 09:50
The future of Galatasaray's experienced player Dries Mertens remains uncertain. Head Coach Okan Buruk wants Mertens to join the coaching staff at the end of the season. Mertens' wife is happy living in Istanbul and wants to stay there. If Mertens' wife decides to remain in Istanbul, the coaching staff offer presented by Okan Buruk could become an attractive option.
Galatasaray's experienced star Dries Mertens is approaching an important decision phase at the end of the season. While the future of the Belgian footballer, whose contract is about to expire, remains uncertain, head coach Okan Buruk is looking for ways to keep the experienced player in the team.
The 37-year-old star, who has not been getting regular playing time in recent weeks and is said to have fallen out of favor, will become a free agent at the end of the season. The Galatasaray management is not considering a new player contract with Mertens, but they are also not intending to let him go completely.
According to a report by Türkiye Gazetesi, Okan Buruk plans to offer Mertens a position in Galatasaray's coaching staff if he decides to retire from football. It is stated that Buruk wants to benefit from the experienced footballer's expertise and aims to maintain his leadership within the team.
THERE ARE INTERESTED PARTIES
On the other hand, it is reported that offers have come to Mertens from the MLS in the USA and from Western Sydney, where Juan Mata plays. These offers from outside Europe could open new doors for the star footballer to continue his career.
HIS WIFE LOVES ISTANBUL
It is said that Mertens will make his final decision by discussing it with his family at the end of the season. However, the report emphasizes that the Belgian star's wife, Katrin Kerkhofs, is very happy in Istanbul and wants to stay here.
This situation could affect Mertens' future at Galatasaray. If he decides to stay in Istanbul, the coaching staff offer presented by Okan Buruk could become an attractive option.
At the end of the season, whether Mertens will continue his football career or join the coaching staff is eagerly awaited by the Galatasaray community and fans.