We have known for several days now, Dries Mertens will not extend with Napoli. The Red Devil took its time to react publicly to this news. He finally came out of silence this Wednesday evening to greet his club, his city, his supporters in a touching video posted on his social networks.
“Dear Neapolitans, dear fellow citizens. I knew this day had to come. But I didn’t know it would be so hard for me.”began Mertens, looking straight into the camera with his son Ciro sitting on his legs.
“This city has adopted me, loved me, supported me through difficult times and wonderful times. Records will be in the books but the people and this city will forever be in my heart. I am very proud that my son Ciro was born in Naples and when he travels the world, he will always remain a Neapolitan.
I was not born here like him but for 9 years Naples was my land. We all know this town is in my blood. I have also decided to keep a house here in the Bay of Naples so that I can come back here as often as possible.”
Before closing this video with a summary of his best moments in Naples, Mertens thanked all the people who supported him.
“The club, all my teammates, all my coaches, my supporters and my friends… to all the Neapolitans I have only one word to say: thank you! My departure did not go as I expected but what It’s not goodbye, it’s just goodbye!”
Active in Napoli from 2013 to 2022, Mertens is the best awith 148 goals in 397 games. With the Partenopei, the Red Devil won two Italian Cups and an Italian Super Cup.
