Modern football is no longer only about transfers between clubs. At international level, national teams are increasingly battling to convince dual-nationality players to represent their countries. In what has become a constant tug-of-war between federations, players, and families, Fernández-Pardo has emerged as one of the most talked-about cases.

The young winger from LOSC Lille will play for Belgium at the upcoming World Cup after repeatedly turning down the chance to represent Spain. Following his steady rise and growing reputation in European football, the 21-year-old officially announced his decision through Instagram.

“It was an important decision for me and my family, taken with great pride and respect. I will continue working hard to deserve this opportunity to represent Belgium. Proud to be Belgian,” the attacker wrote.

Fernández-Pardo also admitted the decision was emotionally difficult due to his strong ties to both countries.

“Choosing Belgium was not easy because I feel a deep connection with both Belgium and Spain… The conversations were decisive in helping me make my decision,” he explained.

During his development years, the winger represented Belgium at several youth levels before later receiving call-ups from Spain’s Under-20 and Under-21 national teams. However, he declined every invitation, reportedly rejecting Spain on four different occasions.

The Royal Belgian Football Association welcomed the player’s decision with satisfaction. Fernández-Pardo was born in Brussels and also has Spanish and Italian roots, while holding Belgian dual nationality.

The final decision required approval from FIFA after the attacker switched his sporting nationality to Spanish in February 2025. With Italy ruled out as a possible international option, FIFA regulations only allowed him to return to his original federation: Belgium.

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