Sunderland’s strongest XI after Thomas Meunier seals free transfer | OneFootball

Thomas Meunier has joined Sunderland on a free transfer after leaving Lille, becoming the club’s first signing of the summer on a two-year deal. The 34-year-old Belgium right-back arrives with extensive top-level experience.

The player said on the club website that he is hugely excited to start at the Stadium of Light, describing the Premier League as a major challenge and praising the club’s ambition. He added that competing in Europe influenced his decision.

Meunier featured in Belgium’s run to the last 16 at this summer’s World Cup, which ended with a 2-1 defeat to Spain. After becoming a free agent earlier this month, he moved quickly to take the next step in his club career.

He has played in the Champions League and Europa League with Club Brugge, Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund and Lille. Sunderland have qualified for the Europa League, and his pedigree is expected to bolster their squad for the campaign ahead.

Attention now turns to how Regis Le Bris could set up his side with Meunier at right-back. A projected strongest XI lists Robin Roefs in goal, a back line of Meunier, Trai Hume, Dan Ballard and Omar Alderete.

Midfield options cited are Granit Xhaka, Noah Sadiki and Habib Diarra, with Enzo Le Fee and Chemsdine Talbi out wide. Brian Brobbey leads the attack.

Source: Sunderland Echo