FIFA under fire after World Cup criticism by Thomas Meunier at FIFA

The World Cup in America will not leave a positive impression on Thomas Meunier. The 35‑year‑old Sunderland defender, who played three matches for Belgium at the final tournament, has no kind words for FIFA. His criticism is aimed at the organisation and the atmosphere surrounding the tournament.

Political interference and Balogun controversy

Ahead of the Belgium versus United States match, Folarin Balogun dominated the news. The striker for Team USA was initially suspended for the knockout match against the Red Devils, but after interference from Donald Trump and the White House he was allowed to play after all.

“For me, football and politics don’t have to go together, but football reflects what people think. You hear it in the stands, with racism, with many more things,” says Meunier in conversation with The Athletic.

Meunier adds that the consequences fell rightly on Balogun’s plate, while the striker had asked for nothing.

Belgium won 1‑4 against America and progressed to the next round, but Meunier could not enjoy a single moment of it.

He states that this World Cup symbolizes the dark side of traditional football, driven by capitalism, entertainment and money, and warns that football must not become the top priority in America.