Belgium convince talented striker Fernandez-Pardo to pledge his international allegiance

The 21-year-old attacker, born in Brussels with Italian and Spanish heritage, represented Belgium in youth categories. However, during 2024, he opted for Spain yet failed to appear for their under-20 team after receiving a summons.

Fernandez-Pardo has enjoyed an impressive campaign with Lille, currently positioned third in Ligue 1 and poised to qualify for the Champions League next term, emerging as a potential solution for Belgium's attacking issues.

Record goalscorer Romelu Lukaku endured a season marred by injuries and saw limited action at Napoli, whereas Lois Openda has struggled for minutes at Juventus, leading the Belgian football authorities to contact Fernandez-Pardo.

"Opting for Belgium proved challenging as I share strong ties with both Belgium and Spain," Fernandez-Pardo remarked in an official federation release on Tuesday.

“Encouraging and honest conversations with (manager) Rudi Garcia and (Belgium football association technical director) Vincent Mannaert proved pivotal in my choice to join Belgium.

“Moreover, sharing the pitch with fellow Lille players Thomas Meunier and Nathan Ngoy cemented my resolve," he continued.

“Their support on and away from the field helped confirm my instincts. I am thrilled to now dedicate myself completely to the Belgian senior side."

Garcia is set to announce the 26-player Belgium roster for the World Cup this Friday. The team faces Egypt, Iran and New Zealand in their group for the upcoming event hosted across Canada, Mexico and the U.S. next month.