Jeremy Doku Returns to Belgium Squad After Welcoming Newborn Son
Doku's Heartfelt Return to the National Team
Belgium winger Jeremy Doku has rejoined his national team at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after taking a brief leave to witness the birth of his first child. Upon his arrival back at the team's base in Washington on Wednesday, he received a warm welcome from his teammates.
The Belgian Football Association shared a touching video on social media, showcasing the players embracing Doku, with a caption that read, 'Back in camp after the most important assist of his life.'
Doku and his wife, Shireen, celebrated the birth of their son, Praise, on Monday. The 24-year-old had temporarily stepped away from Belgium's World Cup camp to be present for this significant moment, a choice that sparked some discussion but was largely praised by fans and teammates alike.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the Manchester City winger expressed that the arrival of his son is a transformative experience. 'Welcoming my son into the world is one of the greatest blessings God has ever given me,' Doku shared. 'Now it’s time to get back to football and represent my country on the biggest stage.'
As reported, Doku had previously missed Belgium's goalless draw against Iran due to illness after participating in their opening Group G match, which ended in a 1-1 draw against Egypt. His return is timely, as Belgium currently sits third in the group, gearing up for a crucial match against New Zealand in Vancouver on Friday.
Belgium's coach, Rudi Garcia, now faces the decision of whether to reinstate Doku in the starting lineup. The speedy winger is a contender to take over from Alexis Saelemaekers on the wing, although Dodi Lukebakio is also in the mix.
Garcia is likely to keep key players like Kevin De Bruyne, Leandro Trossard, and Romelu Lukaku in the lineup as Belgium aims for a victory that could secure their advancement to the knockout stages.
However, the coach will need to make at least one defensive adjustment, as centre-back Nathan Ngoy received a red card during the second half of the match against Iran. Arthur Theate is the frontrunner to fill that position, while Timothy Castagne may also return to the full-back role.
With Doku back in the fold and Belgium's World Cup aspirations on the line, Garcia has received a much-needed boost ahead of one of the tournament's pivotal matches.