会えるとは思わなかった

I didn't think I'd be able to meet

→ 会う

phrase Rare #22,776

I didn't think I'd be able to meet Often expresses surprise or happiness at getting to see someone. The person being met is usually clear from context.

JA: また君に会えるとは思わなかった。

EN: I didn't think I'd be able to see you again.

でもまさか本人に会えるとは思わなかったよね

But I never thought we’d actually get to meet them in person.

— Love Letter (1995)

会えるとは思わなかった

I didn't think I'd see you.

— ダーク・プレイス (2015)

まさか彼に会えるとは思わなかった。

I never expected to run into him.