‘I find a bit of myself in Sunderland’: Thomas Meunier on his new life in England, a striking past and Balogun
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Thomas Meunier, a 35-year-old Belgian footballer with a diverse career including Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain, and now Sunderland, is known for his hyperactivity and versatility, having transitioned from a striker to a full-back at age 22.
- Meunier recently joined Sunderland, embracing the club's passionate fanbase and English football's intensity, and values Sunderland's ambition and connection to his own background and personality.
- Reflecting on the 2026 World Cup, Meunier criticized FIFA's political interference, particularly the controversial reinstatement of Folarin Balogun for the US team, which he sees as emblematic of broader issues of commercialization and politics overshadowing football.
- Meunier's career journey includes overcoming early setbacks, such as being released by Standard Liege, working part-time jobs while playing third-division football, and evolving into a key player for top European clubs and the Belgian national team.
- With extensive European and international experience, Meunier aims to contribute to Sunderland's goal of maintaining their high Premier League standing and competing in the Europa League, emphasizing his continued competitive drive at 35.
