Jeremy Doku May Miss World Cup Matches for Childbirth

Belgium winger Jeremy Doku faces a potential mid-tournament departure from the FIFA World Cup to attend the birth of his first child, a situation that could impact the team's campaign as they begin play in the United States. The 24-year-old Manchester City star is expected to start for Belgium in their opening Group G match against Egypt in Seattle on Monday, June 15.

Doku confirmed to reporters that his wife, Shireen, is due to give birth during the second week of July, a timeline that coincides with the tournament's quarterfinal stage. Should Belgium advance that far, Doku stated he intends to leave the squad to be present for the birth. He acknowledged the competing priorities, saying it is his first child and that nobody wants to miss such an event, but also recognized the professional considerations involved in a major tournament. He added that the Belgian Football Federation has been supportive and understanding of his situation.

According to reports, contingency plans are being arranged to facilitate a temporary departure. These plans reportedly include having a private charter plane on standby to fly Doku from the United States to England, where the child is expected to...