Thomas Meunier reveals key Régis Le Bris talks behind Sunderland transfer

Thomas Meunier has revealed how an unusually detailed conversation with Régis Le Bris played a crucial role in convincing him to join Sunderland during the summer transfer window.

The experienced Belgium international joined Sunderland on a free transfer from Lille in July, signing a two-year contract after returning from the World Cup.

Despite playing under several high-profile coaches during his career, Meunier says Le Bris provided him with something he had never previously experienced during a transfer.

Before completing his Sunderland move, Meunier held a conversation lasting more than an hour with Le Bris.

Rather than simply attempting to sell the club to him, the Sunderland manager explained his tactical philosophy and questioned Meunier about how he viewed football.

“We had a call for more than an hour,” Meunier told The Athletic. “It was the first time I had a call with the trainer explaining what he wants, asking me how I see the game, if I had watched a few Sunderland games.”

Meunier had previously experienced recruitment processes led predominantly by sporting directors at Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.

Le Bris taking such a personal role therefore made a significant impression.

“He took the time to explain his vision. I liked that,” Meunier added.

The conversation also offers an insight into how Le Bris approaches Sunderland’s recruitment.

Rather than focusing purely on a player’s quality and experience, the French coach wanted to establish whether Meunier understood and could operate within his tactical model.

That approach particularly appealed to the 35-year-old, who felt Le Bris respected his football intelligence and experience.

Meunier arrived with 83 Belgium caps and extensive Champions League and Europa League experience following spells in France, Germany, Belgium and Turkey.

Since arriving, Meunier has provided competition for Trai Hume on the right side of Sunderland’s defence.

His signing also added valuable experience and leadership to a relatively young squad as Le Bris continues developing his team.

For Meunier, that hour-long conversation appears to have provided exactly the clarity he needed before committing his future to Sunderland.

Meunier will look to establish himself within Le Bris’ system and use his considerable experience to help Sunderland this season. His comments also underline how important tactical suitability has become to the club’s recruitment strategy.