Jeremy Doku has welcomed his first child into the world. The Belgium and Manchester City winger became a father to a baby boy during the ongoing World Cup, marking a joyous moment in his personal life. The 24-year-old was granted special permission to leave the Red Devils’ camp in the United States and travel to London for the birth of his son.

A joyful occasion for the Doku family

The Belgian Football Association announced on Monday that Doku and his wife, Shireen, have welcomed their first child, a son named Praise. The Manchester City forward was allowed to depart from the national team’s training base just before Belgium’s group stage clash with Iran to be present for the special occasion.

In an official statement, the Belgian Football Association (RBFA) confirmed: “Jeremy received the message yesterday, prior to the match, that the birth was imminent. Following discussions with the Red Devils’ medical team, it was decided to temporarily allow him to join his wife in London.”

Medical clearance for his brief journey

Doku’s participation in the match against Iran had already been uncertain due to a respiratory infection that had sidelined him from training sessions in Los Angeles. However, team doctor Brahim Hacene clarified that the winger’s condition posed no risk for him to make the transatlantic journey to support his wife during labour.

“As he had been under an adjusted medication regime for several days, he was cleared to travel safely to be with his family for this important moment,” Hacene stated.

He further added, “Everything went perfectly, and both mother and baby are in excellent health. Jeremy will rejoin the team in Seattle tomorrow evening.”

Navigating external criticism

Doku’s decision to temporarily leave the squad during the tournament did not come without controversy. The player had earlier made it clear that he wished to be present for the birth, which fueled debate in the media. One television presenter even faced strong criticism after claiming that fathers were “useless” during childbirth and that the World Cup should be prioritised.

The backlash led to a social media uproar, prompting the broadcasting network to issue an apology and suspend the presenter. Despite the off-field distractions, Doku has stayed focused on balancing his family responsibilities with his professional commitments, sharing his happiness following the arrival of baby Praise.

Important clash against New Zealand ahead

Belgium’s World Cup campaign has been frustrating so far, following two consecutive draws against Egypt and Iran. The Red Devils’ goalless result with Iran intensified scrutiny from Belgian media, who questioned the team’s lack of creativity in the absence of their dynamic winger.

Doku is expected to rejoin Rudi Garcia’s squad in Seattle on Tuesday. His return is timely, as Belgium must secure a win against New Zealand on Friday to confirm their spot in the last 32 and keep their World Cup hopes alive.