Doku Leaves Belgium Camp for Son’s Birth Then Returns to Squad

Jérémy Doku returned to London in time for the birth of his son, Praise, before rejoining Belgium’s World Cup squad, the Belgian Football Association said. The federation stated that the mother and baby were doing wonderfully. The 24-year-old Manchester City winger had previously told Reuters he planned to leave Belgium’s World Cup camp if necessary to attend the birth.

“It’s my first child, so I would definitely want to be there,” Doku said. ” The decision drew criticism during a broadcast on the French sports network L’Équipe. Presenter France Pierron said there are hundreds of footballers who would love to be in his position.

“It’s truly a special moment, a childhood dream come true,” she said. ” L’Équipe distanced itself from the remarks, stating they were far removed from the organization’s values, and apologized to Doku and viewers. Multiple reports indicated Pierron would remain off the air until early July.

In a statement on X, Pierron said the remarks were solely her own and expressed regret for any offense. Doku had been with the Belgium team during an international friendly match on June 6 in Brussels.