Jeremy Doku Returns to Belgium Camp After Welcoming First Child Ahead of Crucial World Cup Clash
Manchester City winger rejoins Belgium squad after the birth of his son, providing a timely boost before the decisive Group G encounter against New Zealand.
Washington D.C., June 24: Belgium winger Jeremy Doku has rejoined his national team's FIFA World Cup 2026 camp after briefly returning to England for the birth of his first child. The 24-year-old was greeted with warm embraces from teammates as he arrived back at Belgium's base in Washington.
The Belgian Football Association celebrated Doku's return by sharing a heartwarming video on social media, describing the birth of his son as "the most important assist of his life."
Doku and his wife, Shireen, welcomed a baby boy named Praise on Monday. The Manchester City star had temporarily left the World Cup camp to be present for the birth, a decision that drew widespread support from fans and fellow players.
Sharing his emotions on social media, Doku called fatherhood one of the greatest blessings of his life and expressed his excitement about returning to represent Belgium on football's biggest stage.
His return comes at a crucial moment for Belgium, who are currently third in Group G. Doku had already missed the team's goalless draw against Iran due to illness after featuring in the opening 1-1 draw against Egypt.
Belgium now face a must-win clash against New Zealand in Vancouver, with qualification for the knockout stage hanging in the balance.
Head coach Rudi Garcia must decide whether to immediately restore Doku to the starting lineup. The winger is among the options to replace Alexis Saelemaekers, while Dodi Lukebakio also remains in contention for a place on the flank.
Garcia is expected to retain experienced attackers Kevin De Bruyne, Leandro Trossard and Romelu Lukaku as Belgium look to secure a vital victory. However, the coach will be forced into a defensive change after Nathan Ngoy's red card against Iran, with Arthur Theate the leading candidate to fill the vacancy.
With Doku back in the squad and Belgium's World Cup campaign at a critical stage, the Red Devils have received a significant boost ahead of one of their most important matches of the tournament.
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