Why did Jeremy Doku withdraw from Belgium's FIFA World Cup campaign?

Doku played in Belgium’s opening game of the FIFA World Cup.

Belgium, who started their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a 1-1 draw, face Iran in their second group stage fixture. However, they then played a goalless draw.

They are likely to qualify for the knockout round. However, if they want to solidify their chances, they would have to secure a victory over New Zealand on Matchday 3. However, for the match, they will be missing Jeremy Doku.

The 24-year-old played 86 minutes in Belgium’s opening game of the season and then missed the second game due to illness. And now, he has decided to return home to care for his wife, who will be giving birth to their first child soon.

Also Read: Scotland defender insists he is “comfortable” facing Neymar at FIFA World Cup 2026

Why did Jeremy Doku leave the Belgium camp for the FIFA World Cup?

Jeremy Doku has left Belgium’s World Cup delegation to join his wife, who is about to give birth to their first child. He also released a video in which he talked about his decision. The Manchester City winger has made it clear that he puts his family over his professional duties. He said in the video:

“I’ve decided to withdraw from the World Cup and return to my wife to stay by her side as we welcome the birth of our child. I know this decision comes rather abruptly; the team is right in the crucial knockout stage, and every match is a gruelling battle. Everyone is giving their all to chase victory.”

However, his decision has also attracted criticism from media outlets and the football world. His wife, Shireen, is due to give birth during the second week of July. That means Doku will miss the World Cup quarter-final if Belgium reaches the last eight. He further added:

As a footballer, I love this sport deeply, cherish my teammates who fight alongside me, and hold every fan who supports me close to my heart, yet when my wife told me her due date was drawing near, and when I pictured her enduring this monumental yet daunting journey all alone, my heart made it clear my family needs me right now. I have to go back.”

“I’ve spoken at length with the head coach and all my teammates about this matter. They offered their full support without hesitation, and the team has drawn up tactical contingency plans. I assure everyone that I will stick to a structured training regimen while I’m away. If circumstances permit, I will fly back to the pitch at the earliest opportunity to stand together with the squad.”

Jeremy Doku has said he would return to the Belgian squad if given the opportunity.

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