Matías Fernández-Pardo has decided to represent Belgium at the international level. It was a difficult decision, but the 21-year-old attacker, who also held the option of playing for Spain until the very end, will now join the Red Devils. The talented Lille forward, of Spanish-Belgian descent, has made his choice regarding his international future.
As AS reported last October, Belgium had been pushing for his commitment and has now succeeded in winning him over. Although Fernández-Pardo had been close to Spain and was even called up to the Under-21 side, the situation has now changed.
Fernández-Pardo asked the Spanish Football Federation for time to think things over. During that period, Belgium intensified their efforts. Belgian newspaper Nieuwsblad first broke the news, which AS has been able to confirm. Belgium’s head coach Rudi García and his federation acted quickly, holding a personal meeting with the player to present their project. It is very likely that García will include him in Belgium’s squad for the upcoming World Cup.
The paperwork with FIFA to reinstate his Belgian international eligibility has been completed successfully. Fernández-Pardo had previously played for Belgium’s youth teams before switching to Spain. As per regulations, he could only change once more to play for Belgium again.
Welcome to the Red Devils, Matias. 😍
pic.twitter.com/8NkW8rf4Tm
— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils)
May 12, 2026
The attacker has had an outstanding end to the season, rediscovering his joy playing as a center forward—his preferred position. There he has showcased his talent, speed, and aggression on the ball, helping Lille secure a chance to play in next season’s Champions League. Last January, he was a target for Atlético Madrid, and when the next transfer window opens, he is expected to be one of the big names on the market again.
