World Cup
Jeremy Doku prioritises birth of son over World Cup duties
Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku flew to London to be present for the birth of his son Praise, leaving Belgium’s World Cup camp in Qatar and missing the second group match against Iran, after playing 86 minutes of the 1‑1 draw with Egypt.
Jeremy Doku joined Manchester City from Rennes in 2023 for a reported £55.4 million. The 24‑year‑old winger became a father during the tournament.
channel presenter France Pierron described a father as “completely useless” at the time of his child’s birth, calling the moment “disgusting”. later issued an apology, calling Pierron’s comments “very far removed” from its values, and the presenter was reported to skip her show on Monday.
The football community responded with widespread support for Doku. “Nobody wants to miss the birth of their first child,” Doku told Reuters, adding that the federation understands players’ situations.
England striker Ollie Watkins, a father of two, defended Doku, saying labeling the birth “disgusting” was inappropriate and emphasizing the rarity of a first child. Watkins recalled his wife’s smooth delivery but noted many families face tougher circumstances.
The Professional Footballers’ Association said players should not have to sacrifice fundamental family moments and called for support balancing professional duties with life events. A spokesperson said supporting players as people, not just athletes, is essential for a healthy professional environment.
Fatherhood Institute deputy chief executive Jeremy Davies told that the situation likens players to “gladiators in the Colosseum,” highlighting the disparity between entertainment expectations and personal priorities. He argued that while players earn large salaries, personal milestones like a birth hold greater value.
FIFA regulations mandate a minimum 14‑week paid maternity leave for female players, with eight weeks post‑birth, but provide no specific paternity provision for men. The lack of a defined paternity leave leaves male players to negotiate their own arrangements with clubs.
One club kept a car on standby for a player whose partner was due, while a manager at a top‑flight European club missed a match to be with his wife during labour, directing his team from the television. The manager, now working in the Championship, said his team won 2‑1 at half‑time before his daughter was born two hours later.
In 2018, Fabian Delph left England’s World Cup camp for his daughter’s birth; David Silva missed two City matches after his son arrived early, and David de Gea received extended leave in 2021 when his partner gave birth. Doku therefore joins a small group of men who have chosen family over tournament duties.