Jeremy Doku Wants to Leave World Cup 2026 Camp for His Child’s Birth — and Football United Behind Him

Jeremy Doku has made it clear — family comes first. The Manchester City winger, who is due to become a father next month, wants to leave the Belgium camp to attend the birth of his first child, even if the team is still in the World Cup 2026. His stance has drawn support from across football after a controversy that began in France.

Why Jeremy Doku wants to leave the Belgium camp

Jeremy Doku has said he intends to leave the Belgium camp to be present for the birth of his first child, due next month. The Manchester City winger, who moved from Rennes for £55.4m in 2023, has fully backed his choice to be with his partner regardless of the tournament schedule.

The case raises a real question for every World Cup squad: how to balance players’ personal lives with a tournament that can last several weeks. For Doku the answer is clear, and several team-mates have publicly voiced their support.

The L’Equipe controversy

L’Equipe channel presenter France Pierron criticised Doku, saying a father is “completely useless” at the time of the birth, which she called a “disgusting moment”. The remarks sparked an immediate wave of anger on social media and across the game.

In a statement, L’Equipe apologised, saying Pierron’s comments were “very far removed” from its values. The presenter also apologised, in an episode that went well beyond sport and reignited the debate about fatherhood among elite athletes.

How football united behind Doku

Beyond Belgium, many players and pundits came to Jeremy Doku’s defence, stressing that a father’s presence at the birth is a right, not a luxury. The support crossed borders and reached England, where the balance between football and family resonates strongly.

England internationals have faced similar situations, leaving camps for the birth of a child. The Doku case shows the line between sporting commitment and family life remains a sensitive subject at every World Cup.

FAQ