Michael Zorc praises Thomas Meunier despite difficult start to life at Borussia Dortmund

Borussia Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc has heaped praise on Thomas Meunier despite the Belgian international’s unconvincing early performances.

Thomas Meunier joined Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer from Paris St. Germain this summer, replacing the outgoing Achraf Hakimi in the vital right wing-back role. Few expected the 29 year old to match the attacking output of his predecessor, but there was hope that he would bring some defensive stability to the team.

Speaking to Ruhr Nachrichten (subscription required), Borussia Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc has praised the full-back, saying that having him in the team gives them some much needed balance and physical presence.

"“Thomas provides a very good balance to the team with his game. His physical presence and charisma help us enormously. He also makes very, very few mistakes.”"

Meunier, who signed a four year deal with the Black and Yellows this summer, has started all five of his side’s games so far. While he has shown glimpses of the defensive quality Zorc mentions, he has struggled on both ends of the pitch more often than not. Missed chances, poor link-up play and sloppy defending from Meunier have left the fans frustrated and unconvinced by him.

But Michael Zorc believes that the signing of Meunier was at least as important for Borussia Dortmund as that of Jude Bellingham, if not more.

Despite the difficult start, it is still early days in Meunier’s Borussia Dortmund career. It is also worth noting that he missed a large part of pre-season with a muscle injury. And hopefully, as the season progresses, we will get to see the best of him.

Meunier is currently away on international duty with the Belgian national team, but looks set to start once again when Borussia Dortmund play Hoffenheim on October 17.