Overview
- Sunderland confirmed on Wednesday that 34-year-old Thomas Meunier has signed a two-year contract on a free transfer and will join first-team training in early August.
- Meunier said competing in Europe was a key reason for his move and he expressed excitement about Sunderland’s ambition and project.
- The defender brings extensive pedigree, with more than 550 senior club appearances, 83 Belgium caps and recent participation at the 2026 World Cup.
- Coaches expect Meunier to compete with Trai Hume for the right-back role and his arrival could allow Nordi Mukiele to be used more regularly as a central defender.
- Sunderland’s director of football described the signing as a low-risk, leadership-driven addition and the club’s first confirmed summer signing to help manage the extra fixtures of a domestic and Europa League season.