Matias Fernandez-Pardo chooses to represent Belgium | OneFootball

Matias Fernandez-Pardo has chosen to represent Belgium and, subject to administrative clearance, is very likely to be in their World Cup plans. The federation confirmed the decision, adding that the full squad will be unveiled on Friday at 13:20 in Tubize, the national training centre south of Brussels.

The 21-year-old featured for Belgium’s youth sides up to under-19 level before giving his preference to Spain, but has now committed to the Red Devils.

He reflected for months on his international future and felt strongly attached to both countries, while discussions with Rudi Garcia and sporting director Vincent Mannaert proved decisive. The influence of Lille team-mates Thomas Meunier and Nathan Ngoy also strengthened his choice, and he now looks forward to committing fully to Belgium.

Head coach Garcia is short of central strikers as he awaits clarity on whether star forward Romelu Lukaku, who has not played for Naples since 6 March, will be ready to finish chances in the United States and Canada.

Loïs Openda is barely featuring at Juventus, with Romeo Vermont at Club Bruges and Michy Batshuayi at Eintracht Frankfurt also short of minutes. The decision has been welcomed internally, with praise for his talent, potential and the maturity of his choice.

Source: L'Équipe