World Cup 2018: Top 10 Right-Backs in the Tournament

#8 Thomas Meunier

Thomas Meunier

The last two major international tournaments have been incredibly disappointing for Belgium’s “Golden Generation”. In 2014, a run to the quarter-finals was cut short by a feeble 1-0 loss to Argentina. The 2016 Euros were even worse, as the Red Devils lost to underdogs Wales. If they are to get over the hump and finally win a trophy, then the likes of Thomas Meunier will need to impress.

In Roberto Martinez’s 3-4-3, Meunier will likely feature as a right-wing back, thus adding extra attacking responsibility on the 26-year-old. Luckily for Belgium, Meunier is excellent going forward, having provided four goals and four assists in just eight starts for PSG in Ligue 1 last year. Such attacking play will be crucial for Belgium as Meunier will need to provide support to attacking quartet of Dries Mertens, Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku. While Meunier’s playing time was limited for the French giants, he was competent whenever he got a chance as he ranked 51st in WhoScored’s player rating.

His pass success percentage was an excellent 84.8%, a mark usually reserved for central midfielders. Meunier was average defensively, averaging 1.6 tackles and 0.8 interceptions per game. Yet, these numbers do not do justice to the 28-year-old’s performances for Belgium. Meunier is a different player when playing for the Red Devils, as evidenced by his production during the qualification campaign where he scored five goals and assisted seven more. Belgium will be hoping that he can continue this form.