Belgian football star Jeremy Doku has sparked a heated debate after suggesting he could leave the World Cup to be present for the birth of his first child.
The Manchester City winger recently opened up about the difficult decision he may face if Belgium’s World Cup campaign overlaps with his partner giving birth.
“If you ask me what I want, my answer is that nobody wants to miss the birth of their first child,” Doku said.
“But I also know that football involves many other considerations. I know the federation supports its players and understands their situations. We’ll see what we can do.”
While many fans praised the 24-year-old for putting family first, others questioned whether a player should leave football’s biggest tournament during such a crucial moment.
TV Presenter’s Comments Trigger Outrage
The controversy intensified after French television presenter France Pierron criticized Doku’s stance during a discussion about the issue.
“The World Cup is an incredible joy,” Pierron said.
“There are hundreds of footballers who would kill to be in your shoes. It might never happen again in your life.”
She then delivered the remark that has generated widespread backlash online.
“You’re living out a childhood dream, yet you’re going to walk away from it all to attend the birth of your child — a disgusting moment, if you’ll pardon the expression, where the dad is completely useless.”
Her comments quickly spread across social media, with many viewers accusing her of dismissing the role fathers play during childbirth and the emotional importance of being present for such a life-changing event.
Fans Split Over Doku’s Potential Decision
The debate has divided football fans.
Some argue that representing your country at a World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that should take priority, especially given the sacrifices required to reach that level of competition.
Others believe no sporting achievement can compare to witnessing the birth of your first child and supporting your partner during one of the most significant moments of your family’s life.
Many supporters also pointed out that modern attitudes toward fatherhood place far greater value on fathers being actively involved from day one.
Family vs Football
Doku’s comments have reignited a long-running debate in professional sports: should athletes prioritize career-defining opportunities or major family milestones?
For elite footballers, World Cups come around only once every four years and participation is never guaranteed. Injuries, form, and team selection can all prevent players from ever experiencing another tournament.
At the same time, the birth of a first child is a moment that can never be repeated.
For now, Doku has not confirmed what decision he would make if faced with the choice. But his remarks have already sparked one of football’s biggest off-field debates.
Would you leave the World Cup to witness the birth of your first child?
