Rudi Garcia unveiled his 26-man Belgium squad for the 2026 World Cup, with the headline being the surprise inclusion of Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo and the controversial omission of Juventus striker Loïs Openda. Romelu Lukaku also makes the cut despite fitness concerns.
The 21-year-old Fernandez-Pardo's decision to switch international allegiance from Spain to Belgium paid immediate dividends. Having represented Spain at youth level, he opted this week to commit to the Red Devils, where he sees a clearer path to playing time. Garcia praised his pace and ability to stretch defenses, qualities that complement Charles De Ketelaere, the likely starter as a target man. Fernandez-Pardo's selection is subject to administrative clearance, but his presence adds a dynamic option to an attack that has often looked blunt.
Lukaku's inclusion is a calculated gamble. The 33-year-old has not played since March 6 due to a conditioning program and has seen minimal action in recent months. However, unlike the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he arrived injured and failed to score as Belgium crashed out in the group stage, Lukaku is physically fit. His 89 international goals and leadership are invaluable; Garcia views him as a potential impact substitute, a "luxury weapon" from the bench. The hope is that his experience can tip tight matches in the knockout stages.
Loïs Openda can have few complaints. The ex-Lens forward has struggled for consistency at Juventus, and his recent international appearances have been underwhelming. Despite being given multiple opportunities to cement his place, Openda failed to convince. His omission signals a ruthless streak from Garcia, who has prioritized current form over reputation. It also reflects the depth of competition—players like Diego Moreira and Dodi Lukebakio have offered more in similar roles.
Beyond the headline names, Belgium's attacking unit blends youth and experience. Jérémy Doku and Leandro Trossard provide pace and creativity from the flanks, while Alexis Saelemaekers adds a workmanlike edge. Diego Moreira's combative displays for Strasbourg earned him a spot, edging out candidates such as Lucas Stassin (Saint-Étienne) and Malick Fofana (Lyon), who missed out due to injury and form. Hugo Kuypers and Romeo Vermant were also overlooked, a sign that Garcia wants players who can make an immediate impact.
The midfield is anchored by Kevin De Bruyne, the team's talisman. Fresh and determined, De Bruyne will be expected to conduct the orchestra. Alongside him, Youri Tielemans and Hans Vanaken offer technical security, while Nicolas Raskin provides energy. The versatile Amadou Onana and veteran Axel Witsel can also drop into defense if needed, a tactical flexibility that Garcia values. Orel Mangala's dream of a World Cup call-up was dashed, as Garcia opted for a leaner midfield group.
The biggest defensive talking point is Zeno Debast. The Sporting Lisbon center-back sustained a quadriceps tear in training this week, but Garcia chose to include him, betting on his recovery timeline. It's a high-risk move: Debast is Belgium's most consistent defender, and his absence would be keenly felt. The backline features familiar Ligue 1 faces Thomas Meunier and Nathan Ngoy (both Lille) and Arthur Theate (Eintracht Frankfurt, formerly Rennes), alongside Koni De Winter, Maxim De Cuyper, Brandon Mechele, Joaquim Seys, and Timothy Castagne.
Thibaut Courtois remains the undisputed No.1, with Senne Lammens as his deputy. The surprise is Strasbourg's Mike Penders, whose performances in the Conference League and Ligue 1 earned him the third spot over more established names like Matz Sels and Maarten Vandevoordt. Penders represents the future, and his selection hints at a gradual changing of the guard.
Belgium lands in Group G alongside Egypt, New Zealand, and Iran. Their campaign kicks off on June 15 with a high-profile clash against Egypt, a match that will set the tone. With a grueling schedule and an extra knockout round, squad depth will be crucial. Garcia's blend of experience and untested youth will be tested immediately.
This squad reflects a transitional phase for Belgian football. The golden generation is fading, but talents like De Ketelaere, Doku, and Fernandez-Pardo hint at the future. Garcia has balanced sentiment with pragmatism, leaving behind underperformers and taking a chance on fitness doubts. The World Cup will reveal whether these calls were inspired or ill-advised.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.
