World Cup
Jérémy Doku faces criticism over WK absence for childbirth
Jérémy Doku’s planned absence from Belgium’s World Cup matches to attend the birth of his son has sparked debate in France. The Manchester City winger, a key figure for the Red Devils, is set to miss up to two games if the delivery aligns with the knockout stages.
Doku and his wife Shireen expect their first child in early July, coinciding with the Round of 16 and Quarter-finals. The player intends to travel to England between Belgium’s matches, provided there are no complications. The Belgian squad has already expressed full support for his decision.
French sports journalist France Pierron criticised Doku’s plan during a broadcast on L’Équipe TV. "The World Cup is unparalleled luck," she said. "Hundreds of footballers would kill to be in your position. Maybe you’ll never get this chance again in your life. It’s a childhood dream coming true—and he’s going to abandon it all to be at his child’s birth? He’ll be physically exhausted."
Pierron argued that a father’s role during birth is limited. "He has a bit part. As a father, you hold her hand and take a photo. That baby will always be there. Even if he stays in America."
Olympic boxing champion Brahim Asloum disagreed with Pierron’s stance. "When I imagine the arrival of my child… and the joy it brings," he said. "I’d immediately get on a plane and do push-ups on the way to get home as fast as possible."
Asloum emphasised that a child changes a parent’s life forever and that the moment of birth cannot be relived. Pierron, however, remains unconvinced by this perspective.
Doku’s upcoming fatherhood has become major news in France, highlighting the global profile of the Red Devils player. The Belgian, formerly of Stade Rennais, has continued his strong form at Manchester City this season, contributing eight goals and 14 assists across all competitions.
For Belgium, Doku has become their most dangerous attacking threat. In the World Cup qualifiers, he scored five goals and provided three assists, playing a pivotal role in securing the team’s tournament qualification. He is expected to maintain this form during the World Cup, despite the potential absence.
Belgium face Iran on 21 June at 21:00 local time.