“He Didn’t Agree” – Mark van Bommel Explains Thomas Meunier’s Belgium Snub
Belgium manager Mark van Bommel has revealed that Sunderland defender Thomas Meunier was unhappy after learning that he had not been selected for the national team’s upcoming international fixtures.
The experienced right-back joined Sunderland during the summer after leaving Lille as a free agent. Since arriving at the Stadium of Light, Meunier has quickly established himself as an important player for the English club. The 35-year-old has started every Premier League match so far, while also featuring in the EFL Cup and Europa League.
His regular involvement at club level had led Meunier to believe that he could continue contributing to the Belgian national team. However, new head coach Van Bommel has decided to select other players for the upcoming international window.
Meunier has never announced his retirement from international football. In fact, the defender recently made it clear that he remains available for Belgium and believes his performances for Sunderland demonstrate that he still has something to offer at international level.
Speaking on September 10, Meunier emphasized his desire to continue representing the Red Devils. He pointed to his strong start with Sunderland and his continued ability to perform consistently at a high level.
The defender has enjoyed a long international career since making his Belgium debut in 2013. He has earned 83 caps for his country and has represented Belgium at the last three World Cups, making 11 appearances across those tournaments.
Despite that experience, Van Bommel has opted to leave him out of the latest squad. The manager stressed that the decision should not be interpreted as the end of Meunier’s international career.
According to comments reported by Voetbal Primeur, Van Bommel explained that he had spoken with Meunier and told him that other players were being selected for the moment. The Belgian coach said he had not informed the Sunderland defender that his international career was finished.
Interestingly, Meunier reportedly disagreed with the decision and responded confidently during their conversation, indicating that he believes he can still become an important player for Belgium.
Van Bommel’s comments suggest that the door remains open for Meunier in the future. Rather than permanently excluding the experienced defender, the manager appears to be making a selection decision based on his current preferences.
That means Meunier still has an opportunity to return to the Belgium squad. His performances for Sunderland could play an important role in determining whether Van Bommel eventually recalls him.
Belgium’s upcoming fixtures will provide Meunier with a period away from international football, giving him additional time to concentrate on his club responsibilities. The Sunderland defender will need to maintain his position in Régis Le Bris’ team and continue producing strong performances.
For now, Meunier will miss the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures, but his international ambitions remain intact. His determination to continue playing for Belgium means the competition for his position is unlikely to end here.
With his extensive experience, regular Premier League football and continued desire to represent his country, Meunier will hope his performances at Sunderland eventually force his way back into Van Bommel’s plans.
For the moment, however, the message from the Belgium manager is clear: Meunier has not been permanently ruled out, but other players have been preferred for the current squad.
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