Belgium winger Jeremy Doku has ignited a debate over professional versus family priorities after revealing he intends to leave the national team's World Cup camp if necessary to attend the birth of his first child. The 24-year-old Manchester City forward, a key attacking player for Belgium, stated his priority is to be with his wife, Shireen, when she gives birth, even if Belgium remain in the tournament.
Doku's Stance on Fatherhood and Football
Shireen is expected to give birth during the second week of July, coinciding with the quarter-final stage if Belgium progresses. Speaking to Reuters, Doku acknowledged the complexity but made his personal preference clear: "It's my first child, so I would definitely want to be there. If you ask me what I want, my answer is that nobody wants to miss the birth of their first child. But I also know that football involves many other considerations. I know the federation supports its players and understands their situations. We'll see what we can do."
The Belgian Football Association is reportedly supportive of players handling family matters, though no final decision is needed unless Belgium remains in the tournament at the time of the birth. Doku has earned 48 international caps and scored seven goals for Belgium. During the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign, he made eight appearances, scored five goals, and contributed three assists, solidifying his role as a key weapon under coach Rudi Garcia.
Television Debate Sparks Backlash
Doku's comments triggered strong criticism on L'Équipe de Choc, a French sports program. Sports journalist France Pierron argued that leaving a World Cup is too significant to abandon. "The World Cup is an incredible joy. There are hundreds of footballers who would kill to be in your shoes. It might never happen again in your life. You're living out a childhood dream, yet you're going to walk away from it all to attend the birth of your child - a disgusting moment, if you'll pardon the expression, where the dad is completely useless," Pierron said. She added, "You can't miss a World Cup. And now, you're not going to the match to cut an umbilical cord?"
Her remarks generated widespread criticism online, becoming one of the most discussed football debates in France during the tournament. Former Olympic champion boxer Brahim Asloum, who appeared on the same program, strongly disagreed. "What do you mean, we're useless? Who's encouraging us?" Asloum responded. When Pierron maintained her stance, Asloum countered, "A baby is your whole life. You can win a World Cup or miss it, but once it's over, it's over." Pierron concluded, "But Brahim, your baby will always be there."
Pierron Apologizes After Backlash
As criticism intensified, Pierron issued a statement on her X account, explaining her position and apologizing. "I was expressing a personal opinion, within the context of a contentious exchange. I understand that they may have shocked, hurt, or wounded some of you, and I am sorry for that. My intention has never been to minimise the place or role of fathers with their partner and their child." The apology did not end the wider discussion, which continues alongside Belgium's World Cup campaign.
Illness Sidelines Doku Against Iran
The debate over Doku's future availability coincides with his absence due to illness. Belgium confirmed on Saturday that Doku would miss their second Group G match against Iran because of a respiratory infection relapse, according to Belgian outlet Sporza. Belgium sporting director Vincent Mannaert explained, "It is better to let him rest now and then work towards the final group match against New Zealand." Doku played 86 minutes in Belgium's opening 1-1 draw against Egypt, his first World Cup start after featuring for 18 minutes in Qatar 2022.
Belgium opened the 2026 tournament with a 1-1 draw against Egypt and face New Zealand in a crucial final group match. Whether Doku leaves the tournament for the birth of his son depends on Belgium's progress and the timing of the birth. His comments have prompted a discussion extending beyond football, touching on family, fatherhood, and what athletes should sacrifice at the sport's most prestigious event.
