Just days before the decisive matches of the 2026 World Cup, an unexpected topic has ignited debate in Belgium and France. Belgian winger Jérémy Doku could temporarily leave the tournament if the birth of his first child takes place during the competition.
Doku’s potential departure has divided opinion. The Belgian international has made it clear that he wants to be by his partner’s side when she gives birth to their first child. The Manchester City star believes that no sporting event can compare to such an important family moment.
Doku’s Family Choice Divides Opinion
The possibility has generated strong reactions on television. In France, some pundits argued that a World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a footballer and that stepping away, even for a major personal event, would be difficult to justify.
On L’Équipe TV, journalist France Pierron defended the idea that a World Cup may only come around once in a player’s career and suggested that a father’s presence during childbirth is not essential. Her comments immediately triggered controversy. Former boxing world champion Brahim Asloum strongly disagreed, saying that the joy of welcoming a child would make him rush home as quickly as possible.
Many supporters have sided with Doku, expressing surprise that such a decision could even become controversial. The debate has gone far beyond football, raising broader questions about the balance between professional success and family life.
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