Belgium manager Mark van Bommel says Sunderland‘s Thomas Meunier wasn’t happy to not make it to his squad for the upcoming international break.
The 35-year-old left Lille as a free agent and joined Sunderland in the summer.
He started all Premier League matches for the Black Cats and featured in the EFL Cup and the Europa League. This shows the right-back’s decision to move to the Stadium of Light has worked out well so far.
Belgium had parted ways with Rudi Garcia in July, after the World Cup, and appointed the Dutchman as his successor.
Meunier made his national team debut in 2013 and played 83 matches. He played for his country in the last three World Cup, making 11 appearances in the tournament.
No retirement plans for Sunderland man
Thomas Meunier didn’t announce his international retirement. Instead, the fullback said on September 10th that he wants to continue representing De Rode Duivels, considering his good start to the Sunderland career.
He said: “As for me, I am still available, as I’ve said. I think I’m also a bit lucky because, right now, I’m doing very, very well in my position. I’m still out there performing and delivering top-level displays in the best leagues.”
“And the fact that I’m always at 100% and always available reinforces my belief that I can still render good and loyal service to the nation.”
However, the new Belgium manager doesn’t share the same view, at least for the next international break.
| Every Sunderland signing 26/27 | Previous Club | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Malick Fofana | Lyon | £26m |
| Dayann Méthalie | Toulouse | £24m |
| Jules Ahoka | Royal Antwerp | £8.6m |
| Juan Riquelme Angulo | Independiente del Valle | £5m |
| Kevin Danso | Tottenham Hotspur | Loan |
| Thomas Meunier | Lille | Free Transfer |
Not agreeing with Sunderland player
Earlier today, Mark van Bommel announced his squad and revealed about his discussion with Thomas Meunier. Voetbal Primeur have relayed his comments.
“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,” Van Bommel explained.
This shows the new manager could consider him for in the future, meaning Meunier still has a chance to represent the national team.
Belgium will face Italy, France, Turkey and France [in that order] in September and October. The Sunderland fullback will miss these four UEFA Nations Fixtures.
He has to retain his place under Régis Le Bris and impress for the English club to maintain the hope of making to Van Bommel’s squad in November.
