Belgian winger Jérémy Doku, a key figure in Manchester City’s attack, found himself at the center of a surprising personal dilemma during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
A Brief Leave for a Life‑Changing Event
Doku temporarily stepped away from Belgium’s campaign to be present for the birth of his first child, a decision that sparked both admiration and criticism.
The Manchester City forward had already featured in the team’s opening match against England, but he missed the subsequent game versus Iran after his wife, Shireen, went into labor.
Criticism and Support
France Pierron, a presenter on the L'Equipe channel, described childbirth as a "disgusting moment" in a televised commentary, a remark that quickly ignited a wave of backlash from former athletes such as Brahim Asloum and Premier League striker Ollie Watkins.
In response, L'Equipe issued a formal statement distancing itself from Pierron’s comments and apologizing to Doku and viewers, emphasizing that the outburst did not reflect the outlet’s editorial stance.
Belgian teammates and coaching staff publicly rallied behind Doku, praising his commitment to family and celebrating his return to the squad for the final group fixture against New Zealand.
On social media, Doku and Shireen announced the arrival of their son, naming him Praise, sharing a brief message that was met with an outpouring of congratulations from fans worldwide.
Looking Ahead
With the tournament’s group stage drawing to a close, Doku is set to feature in Belgium’s concluding match against New Zealand, aiming to finish the campaign on a positive note while cherishing the memories of a week that blended professional ambition with personal milestones.