Born and raised in Brussels, Belgium on 3 February 2005, within a family of Spanish and Italian descent, Matias began his playing career with Anderlecht and Mechelen in his native homeland before joining Lille's Academy in 2014.
He spent six years in Northern France before joining Gent's youth system as a 15-year-old.
Matias' breakthrough campaign at first-team level saw the promising youngster rewarded with a contract extension in June 2023, tying him to the club until 2026.
Four years after departing Lille, Matias returned to the Ligue 1 club for a second playing spell, penning a five-year deal with Les Dogues.
Matias has represented Belgium throughout numerous age groups at youth level before making his senior international debut for the Red Devils in June's pre-World Cup friendly win over Croatia.
Upon signing for Newcastle, Fernandez-Pardo said: “I spoke to the head coach and he really showed how much he wanted me to be here. In terms of my own career progression, it made complete sense to come so I didn't hesitate at all."
