Belgian footballer Jeremy Doku could face a personal milestone during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with reports suggesting his partner may give birth around the tournament’s timeframe. The 21-year-old Manchester City winger, who has been a key figure for the Belgian national team, addressed the potential scenario in a recent interview, stating, “Belgium can also win the World Cup without me.” The statement has sparked discussion about the squad’s readiness and the broader implications of player availability during major tournaments.
Doku, who has been a consistent performer for both club and country, has not yet confirmed whether he would miss a match if his child is born during the World Cup. However, sources close to the player indicate that the likelihood of such an absence is low, given the logistical challenges of balancing a professional football schedule with a newborn’s needs. The Belgian Football Association (RFB) has not issued an official statement on the matter, but team officials have emphasized their commitment to supporting players through personal circumstances.
The potential situation highlights the unique pressures faced by athletes during global competitions. Doku, who joined Manchester City from Rennes in 2022, has been a focal point of Belgium’s attacking lineup. His absence could create opportunities for players like Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard, or Dries Mertens, though the squad’s depth has been a topic of debate. Manager Roberto Martínez has previously stated that the team’s success hinges on collective effort, not individual stars.
“The World Cup is a team event,” Martínez said in a pre-tournament press conference. “We’ve prepared for all scenarios, including player unavailability. Our focus is on the collective, not individual circumstances.” The manager’s comments align with the broader philosophy of the Belgian squad, which has long been built on a balance of experience and youth.
Despite the potential for a personal milestone, Doku has not indicated any plans to withdraw from the tournament. His teammate, Romelu Lukaku, echoed this sentiment in an interview with ESPN, stating, “Jeremy is a professional. He’ll do what’s best for the team and his family. We’ve all faced challenges, and this is just another one.”
The situation has also prompted discussions about the broader support systems for athletes. Peter Vandenbempt, a former Belgian international and current sports commentator, highlighted the importance of flexibility. “Nothing should take precedence over the birth of a child,” Vandenbempt said in a sporza.be interview. “But the team must also be prepared. It’s a delicate balance.”
Belgium’s World Cup campaign begins on November 20 against Canada, with Doku expected to feature in the opening match. The team’s schedule includes critical group-stage games against Croatia and Morocco, with the knockout rounds set to begin in December. Any changes to the starting XI would likely be announced closer to the matches, according to RFB protocols.
The potential for Doku’s absence has also raised questions about the tournament’s structure. The World Cup’s tight schedule, with matches occurring every few days, leaves little room for player absences. However, the RFB has a history of managing such challenges, including the 2018 campaign where key players like Vincent Kompany and Marouane Fellaini were unavailable for parts of the tournament.
From a tactical standpoint, Belgium’s 3-4-3 formation under Martínez relies heavily on wingers like Doku and Mertens. Their pace and creativity are vital for breaking down opponents, particularly in high-stakes matches. If Doku were to miss a game, Martínez might shift to a 4-2-3-1 setup, with Lukaku as the lone striker and De Bruyne playing in a deeper role. This adjustment could also allow younger players like Yannick Carrasco or Leander Dendoncker to gain more minutes.
The psychological impact on the team cannot be overlooked. Doku’s presence has been a source of confidence for Belgium, particularly in high-pressure situations. However, the squad’s experience in major tournaments, including the 2018 World Cup semifinal and the 2020 European Championship quarterfinal, suggests they are equipped to handle disruptions. “We’ve been through tough moments before,” said captain Thomas Meunier. “This is just another challenge we’ll face together.”
For Doku personally, the situation represents a unique intersection of professional and personal life. The 21-year-old, who has spoken openly about his ambitions, has previously stated that his family is his priority. “Football is important, but my family comes first,” he said in a 2021 interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport. “I’ll always make decisions that balance both.”
The broader implications for Belgium’s World Cup hopes remain uncertain. While Doku’s absence could create gaps in the attack, the squad’s depth and tactical flexibility offer a buffer. However, the team’s success will also depend on key players like De Bruyne and Lukaku performing at their peak. Martínez has stressed the importance of adaptability, noting that the 2022 squad is “more versatile than ever.”
As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Doku and his family’s situation. The RFB has not provided further details, but the team’s approach has been to focus on the collective rather than individual circumstances. “We’re here to win the World Cup,” Martínez said. “That’s our goal, and we’ll do everything possible to achieve it.”
For now, the Belgian squad continues its preparations, with training sessions in Doha and a focus on tactical cohesion. The next confirmed checkpoint is the team’s final pre-tournament friendly against Peru on November 16, which will serve as a final test before the World Cup begins.
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