Belgium have been dealt a major blow. Jérémy Doku will miss Sunday’s Group G clash against Iran in the second round of the 2026 World Cup after the Belgian national team confirmed that the Manchester City winger is suffering from respiratory issues.
Doku will not be available against Iran on Sunday evening. Already below his best during Belgium’s 1-1 draw with Egypt, the 24-year-old struggled physically. According to head coach Rudi Garcia, the winger has been dealing with a health problem for several days, significantly affecting his performances.
Doku Birth Debate Continues
This absence comes at a time when Doku is at the center of a heated debate in Belgium. The player recently revealed that he hopes to attend the birth of his first child, which is expected during the tournament, even if it means making a quick round trip between the United States and Europe.
The Belgian Football Federation is reportedly studying the possibility, but the issue remains highly divisive. While some believe that a World Cup represents the pinnacle of a player’s career and should take priority, others argue that a father should be present for the birth of his child. As a result, the so-called “Doku Gate” continues to generate strong reactions and discussions across Belgium.
The controversy is unlikely to fade anytime soon, especially as Belgium continue their World Cup campaign without one of their most explosive attacking players. Doku’s situation remains one of the most talked-about stories surrounding the tournament.
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