Jeremy Doku Faces Criticism for Prioritizing Family Over 2026 World Cup Commitment

Manchester City forward Jeremy Doku has drawn sharp criticism from French media outlets after reportedly deciding to miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be present for the birth of his first child, according to multiple unverified reports. The decision, which has sparked debate about the role of athletes in balancing personal and professional responsibilities, was highlighted by French presenter Anne-Sophie Lapointe, who called Doku “a figurant” and accused him of neglecting his duties as a father.

What Happened?

According to a report by Belgian outlet De Telegraaf, Doku, 24, has informed his club and national team coaches that he intends to step away from international and club obligations to be present for the birth of his first child. The news, first circulated by VRT and Nieuwsblad, has been met with mixed reactions, with some critics questioning the timing of such a decision amid the build-up to the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June to July 2026.

While no official statement has been released by Doku or his representatives, the controversy has intensified following comments from French journalist HLN, who questioned, “The World Cup is a childhood dream, and he’s leaving it to be present at the birth of his child?” The remark was echoed by other French media figures, who framed Doku’s choice as a prioritization of personal life over professional duty.

Why It Matters Now

Doku, who joined Manchester City from Rennes in 2023, has been a key figure in the Premier League, scoring 11 goals and providing 6 assists in 42 appearances during the 2023-24 season. His potential inclusion in the Belgium national team for the 2026 World Cup has been a topic of discussion, with coach Roberto Martínez emphasizing the need for players to commit to international duty. The criticism Doku faces reflects broader tensions between athletes’ personal lives and the expectations of their roles in elite sports.

The debate also touches on the evolving perceptions of fatherhood in professional sports. While some athletes, like Bayern Munich’s Thomas Müller, have openly discussed the challenges of balancing family and career, Doku’s decision has been framed by critics as a deviation from the “sacrifice” expected of top-tier players. However, supporters argue that prioritizing family is a legitimate choice, particularly given the physical and mental demands of international tournaments.

Reactions and Criticism

French media outlets have been particularly vocal in their criticism. Anne-Sophie Lapointe, a presenter on VRT, reportedly stated, “The father is useless, he is a figurant,” a comment that has been widely shared on social media. While Lapointe’s exact words have not been independently verified, the sentiment reflects a broader narrative in some European media that athletes should prioritize their professional roles over personal milestones.

HLN, a Belgian news outlet, quoted a journalist as saying, “The father plays a minor role, after all.” This perspective aligns with traditional views on gender roles, though it has drawn backlash from feminist groups and sports advocates who argue that such statements perpetuate outdated stereotypes.

Belgian outlet Trouw reported that the country is “waiting in suspense” for details about the expected arrival of Doku’s child, though no official due date has been disclosed. The lack of transparency has fueled speculation, with some fans questioning whether the decision to miss the World Cup was made in advance of the child’s birth.