Thomas Meunier has signed a two-year Sunderland contract after leaving Lille, with the 34-year-old set to wear the number 12 shirt
Sunderland have confirmed the signing of experienced Belgium international Thomas Meunier on a two-year contract.
The 34-year-old right-back has joined the Black Cats following the expiry of his deal with French side Lille and will wear the number 12 shirt at the Stadium of Light. Meunier completed his medical earlier this week and will link up with Régis Le Bris’ squad in early August following his involvement with Belgium at the 2026 World Cup.
The defender arrives on Wearside with more than 550 senior club appearances and 83 international caps, adding considerable experience to Sunderland’s squad ahead of a season involving Premier League and Europa League football. Meunier began his career in Belgium’s lower leagues before establishing himself with Club Brugge, where he won the Belgian Pro League and Belgian Cup.
He joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2016 and spent four years in the French capital, winning three league titles among a collection of domestic honours. Meunier later represented Borussia Dortmund, Trabzonspor and Lille. His arrival provides additional competition for Trai Hume at right-back and could also allow Nordi Mukiele to feature more regularly in central defence.
Florent Ghisolfi explains Sunderland decision
Sunderland director of football Florent Ghisolfi believes Meunier’s experience, professionalism and leadership will prove valuable both on and off the pitch. Ghisolfi said: “We are delighted to welcome Thomas to Sunderland AFC – from the moment we started speaking, we felt he had a very positive feeling about the club.
“Throughout his career he has consistently performed at the highest level, representing some of Europe's biggest clubs, and Belgium on the international stage. He brings a wealth of experience, leadership and professionalism, alongside real quality in both defensive and attacking phases of the game.
“Thomas is a player who understands what it takes to compete for success, and we're confident his mentality and character will have a positive influence on the squad. We believe he'll make an important contribution on and off the pitch, and we're excited to see him begin this new chapter with us. It feels like a great fit.”
Meunier reveals importance of European football
Meunier revealed that Sunderland’s ambition and Europa League qualification were significant factors behind his decision to join the club. The Belgian had other options available but has chosen to experience Premier League football for the first time in his career.
“I am hugely excited and honoured to join Sunderland,” he said. “I'm very happy to be here and to begin this new chapter in my career. The Premier League is one of the most competitive and exciting leagues in the world, and it's a challenge I've wanted to experience.
“When I spoke with the club, I was impressed by the ambition, the project and the desire to keep moving forward. Competing in Europe was also a big factor in my decision because, as a player, you always want to test yourself against the best teams and compete for trophies.”
Meunier, who will wear the number 12 shirt, added: “I hope I can bring my experience to the squad, both on and off the pitch. “I've been fortunate to play in some fantastic teams throughout my career, and now I'm looking forward to giving everything for this club, helping my team-mates and building a strong connection with the supporters. I can't wait to get started, meet everyone and play my first match in front of the fans.”
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