Thomas Meunier praises US atmosphere as Belgium conclude World Cup preparations
Belgium and Lille defender Thomas Meunier has expressed strong enthusiasm for the 2026 World Cup host nation after returning from his national team's preparatory tour of the United States. The 34-year-old full-back, speaking to Lille's media upon his return to the Domaine de Luchin training ground, highlighted the impressive infrastructure and vibrant fan culture experienced during friendlies against the US and Mexico.
Meunier's comments came after Belgium played to a 5-2 victory over a US side managed by Mauricio Pochettino and a 1-1 draw with Mexico. The veteran defender emphasized the quality of the stadiums and facilities, stating they have "everything needed to host a good World Cup." He specifically pointed to the atmosphere generated by approximately 60,000 Mexican supporters during the second match as a sign of the passion that will animate the tournament.
"What's good too is that there are quite a few South American teams and it's very close," Meunier said, according to the club's official channels. "That's real passion, and it's going to liven up the World Cup a lot." His remarks serve as positive publicity for the North American hosting bid, a joint venture between the US, Canada, and Mexico, as the football world begins its long build-up to the expanded 48-team tournament.
For Meunier, the international break provided a brief respite from club duties with Lille, who are preparing for a derby match this weekend. The defender's experience and leadership remain valuable assets for both his club and country, even as he approaches the latter stages of his career. His positive assessment of the World Cup preparations contrasts with some managerial critiques of organizational aspects during the tour, but underscores the player-focused perspective on the emerging host nation.
The tour's primary objective was to acclimatize the Belgian squad to potential conditions and venues for 2026, as the Red Devils aim to build on their consistent major tournament performances. With key figures like Kevin De Bruyne also involved, the team is laying early groundwork despite the competition being over two years away. Meunier's role in this process, as an experienced head in a squad transitioning from its 'Golden Generation', appears set to continue.
His immediate focus now returns to Lille, where manager Rudi Garcia will be relying on his defensive contributions for the final stretch of the Ligue 1 season. Meunier's contract situation at Lille remains undisclosed, but his continued involvement with the national team suggests he remains a part of coach Domenico Tedesco's plans for the near future. The defender's firsthand account adds a player's endorsement to the logistical and atmospheric preparations underway in North America.
