Belgium will have attacker Matias Fernandez-Pardo available for the upcoming World Cup after the 21-year-old committed his international future to the Belgian national team, the Belgian football federation announced on May 12, 2026 [1, 2].
Fernandez-Pardo, born in Brussels to Italian and Spanish parents, has represented Belgium at junior levels but switched to Spain in 2024, though he did not respond to a call-up for Spain’s under-20 team that year [1, 2]. His decision to realign with Belgium comes amid concerns over Belgium’s attacking options due to injuries to Romelu Lukaku and limited playing time for Lois Openda [1, 2].
The striker has enjoyed a strong season with Lille, who currently sit third in Ligue 1 and are on course for next season’s Champions League qualification [1, 2]. Fernandez-Pardo credited positive talks with Belgian coach Rudi Garcia and technical director Vincent Mannaert as key factors in his decision to commit. He said, "Choosing Belgium wasn't easy because I feel a deep connection to both Belgium and Spain. The positive and sincere discussions with (coach) Rudi Garcia and (Belgium football association technical director) Vincent Mannaert ultimately played a decisive role in my decision to choose Belgium." He also noted that playing alongside teammates Thomas Meunier and Nathan Ngoy at Lille "helped me solidify this feeling, both on and off the pitch," and expressed delight to "now be able to fully commit to the Belgian national team" [1].
Belgium faces Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand in Group G at the World Cup, which kicks off next month in Canada, Mexico, and the United States [1, 2]. Coach Rudi Garcia will announce the final 26-man squad on Friday following Fernandez-Pardo's commitment [1, 2].