Jeremy Doku Returns to Red Devils After Becoming a Father
Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku has returned to the Belgian national team camp in Seattle after briefly leaving the World Cup to attend the birth of his first child, a son named Praise, with his wife Shireen. The 24-year-old received a warm welcome from teammates upon his arrival at the team hotel on Tuesday evening, with the Belgian Football Association (RBFA) celebrating what it called “his most important assist.”
A Whirlwind Transatlantic Journey
Doku flew from Seattle to London on Sunday after receiving word that the birth of his child was imminent. With the approval of the Red Devils’ medical staff, he made the journey to be by his wife’s side. Shireen Doku gave birth to their son Praise on Monday, and the new father returned to Seattle on Tuesday evening, landing at SeaTac airport after a 2.5-hour flight delay, according to VRT NWS.
Upon landing, a FIFA-organized car was waiting to transport Doku directly to the team hotel, the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington. There, he was greeted with hugs from teammates Romelu Lukaku and Dodi Lukebakio, as well as technical director Vincent Mannaert. The RBFA shared footage of the reunion with the caption: “Back in the basecamp after the most important assist of his life.”
Health Concerns Remain
Doku had already been ruled out of Belgium’s 0-0 draw against Iran on Saturday due to a respiratory infection that had flared up during training in Los Angeles. Team doctor Brahim Hacene confirmed that Doku was receiving adjusted medication and was cleared to fly without medical risk, as Sporza reported. It remains unclear whether Doku’s health has fully recovered, and his availability for the upcoming match may depend on his progress in training.
A Father’s Gratitude
Doku took to Instagram to express his gratitude, writing: “Thank you to everyone who sent sweet messages and prayed for us. Shireen and Praise are doing well and my heart is full of gratitude. Welcoming my son into this world is the greatest blessing I have ever received from God.”
His wife Shireen also shared an emotional message, calling Doku “the best (birth)partner in every possible way” and adding: “Without you it wouldn’t have worked, daddy.” Sporza covered the couple’s social media posts.
Controversy and Support
The decision to leave the World Cup camp for the birth was not without controversy. A French TV presenter on L’Équipe criticized Doku’s plan, describing childbirth as a “disgusting moment” where a father is “completely useless.” The comments sparked widespread backlash on social media. L’Équipe subsequently issued a public apology and suspended the presenter, as The Guardian reported. Other football figures, including England’s Ollie Watkins, defended Doku’s decision, highlighting the importance of family over football.
Crucial Match Ahead
Doku’s return comes at a critical juncture for Belgium. The Red Devils currently sit third in Group G with two points from two draws — a 1-1 opening result against Egypt followed by a 0-0 stalemate with Iran. Group leaders Egypt top the table on four points, while Iran also hold two points but with a superior goal difference. Belgium must defeat New Zealand on Friday to guarantee progression to the Round of 32. Doku is expected to rejoin training behind closed doors on Wednesday, and his availability for the must-win fixture will be closely monitored by coach Rudi Garcia and the medical team.
What’s Next
With the emotional boost of becoming a father and the support of his teammates, Doku’s return could provide the attacking spark Belgium has lacked in its opening matches. However, his respiratory infection remains a concern, and it is uncertain whether he will be fit enough to start against New Zealand. The Red Devils’ World Cup campaign hangs in the balance, and all eyes will be on Seattle on Friday as Belgium fights to keep its tournament hopes alive.