Florent Ghisolfi explains Sunderland move for Thomas Meunier as defender outlines decision | OneFootball

Sunderland have confirmed the signing of Belgium international Thomas Meunier on a two-year contract. The 34-year-old right-back joins after his Lille deal expired and will wear number 12, linking up in early August following Belgium duties at the 2026 World Cup.

According to Sunderland Echo, Meunier completed his medical earlier this week. He adds more than 550 senior club appearances and 83 caps to a squad preparing for Premier League and Europa League football.

He progressed from Belgium’s lower leagues to Club Brugge, winning the Belgian Pro League and Belgian Cup. Meunier moved to Paris Saint-Germain in 2016 and lifted three league titles across four seasons, before spells at Borussia Dortmund, Trabzonspor and Lille.

His arrival increases competition for Trai Hume at right-back and could allow Nordi Mukiele to feature more regularly in central defence. Director of football Florent Ghisolfi praised Meunier’s experience, leadership and professionalism, and believes his mentality and quality can benefit the squad on and off the pitch.

Meunier said the club’s ambition and Europa League qualification were key factors in his decision. He considered other options but chose to sample Premier League football for the first time, aiming to bring his experience, give everything for the club and build a strong connection with supporters.

Source: Sunderland Echo