Sunderland‘s Thomas Meunier says he knew in advance that he wouldn’t represent Belgium during this international break, after his chat with new manager Mark van Bommel.
The Dutchman took over from Rudi Garcia in July, after Belgium’s quarter-final defeat to Spain at the World Cup.
The 35-year-old Sunderland man made three appearances in this tournament, after which he didn’t announce his retirement.
After the World Cup, the right-back moved to the Stadium of Light on a free transfer. He has been a regular for the Premier League side, playing 447 minutes from seven matches.
Sunderland man on need to be pragmatic
Earlier this month, the defender said he’s still available to represent De Rode Duivels, especially after his good start with the Black Cats.
However, Mark van Bommel left him out of the squad and confirmed the disagreement he had with Thomas Meunier.
He said: “I didn’t tell him that it was over for him. I’m just choosing other players at the moment. Thomas didn’t agree with that. ‘I’m going to become important,’ he said. That’s Great.”
Play Sports in Belgium caught up with the Sunderland summer signing. Voetbal Primeur have relayed his comments about the disagreement with the national team manager.
“It is a topic that was already discussed with the coach two or three weeks ago. He had warned me in advance, so I wasn’t surprised when I saw the list,” Meunier explained.
“Even though it is disappointing and a bit of a shame, because I really enjoy being with my Red Devils teammates, we have to be pragmatic. Sunderland is Sunderland and the national team is the national team.”
Sunderland player looking forward
Despite admitting the disappointment, the Sunderland fullback wants to put this behind him.
“I’ve come to terms with the news; now we’re moving on to the next chapter,” he added.
Mark van Bommel has confirmed the Belgium international could return to the national team in the future.
Thomas Meunier has to feature and also impress regularly for Régis Le Bris’ side to retain a chance of representing Belgium again.
🇳🇱 Brian Brobbey | Sunderland star’s personal coach explains why player’s form has exploded
➡️ They’ve changed the way he approaches attacks
➡️ Attempting to reduce physical battles
💬 “You see him scanning, so he also knows where that other guy is behind him. Then he makes eye…— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) September 22, 2026
