Belgium winger Jeremy Doku could face a major personal decision during the FIFA World Cup as he prepares to become a father for the first time while representing his country in the tournament.
Doku, one of Belgium’s key attacking players, is expected to feature prominently as the Red Devils begin their World Cup campaign. However, the birth of his first child is due in July, creating a possible clash between his professional commitments and a life-changing family moment.
The 24-year-old admitted that being present for the birth is extremely important to him. While he remains focused on helping Belgium progress in the tournament, Doku acknowledged that some occasions transcend football.
A difficult balancing act
The expected delivery date falls around the period when the World Cup enters its knockout stages. If Belgium advance deep into the competition, Doku may have to leave the squad temporarily to return home for the birth.
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The Belgian Football Association is reportedly prepared to support the winger should the situation arise. Travel arrangements could be made to ensure he can attend the birth and return to the team as quickly as possible.
🇧🇪 Jeremy Doku has gone viral ahead of Belgium's World Cup opener, but not for anything he's done on the pitch.
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Footballtweet) June 14, 2026
The winger shared a video lasting more than 10 minutes in which he spoke openly about his faith, his relationship with God and the values that guide his life, using… pic.twitter.com/XDl0hsTc7M
Doku stressed that the final decision will depend on the timing of the birth. For now, his attention remains on Belgium’s opening matches and helping the team achieve its goals in the tournament.
Key player for Belgium
Doku heads into the World Cup as one of Belgium’s most influential players. Known for his pace, dribbling ability and attacking flair, he is expected to play a leading role in the squad alongside experienced stars Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku.
Belgium are hoping to make a strong impression on the global stage, and Doku’s performances could be crucial to their chances of success.
Yet even as he prepares for one of the biggest tournaments of his career, the winger knows that an equally significant moment awaits off the pitch. The coming weeks could see Doku balancing the pursuit of World Cup glory with the arrival of his first child, making it a memorable period in both his professional and personal life.
