Belgium and Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku has found himself at the center of one of the biggest off-field discussions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 24-year-old revealed that he is willing to temporarily leave Belgium's World Cup camp to be with his wife for the birth of their first child, an event expected to take place in early July and potentially during the tournament's knockout stages.

Speaking about the situation, Doku made it clear that family remains a top priority. While acknowledging the importance of the World Cup, he stated that missing the birth of his first child would be extremely difficult. Belgium's football federation has reportedly been supportive of his personal circumstances.

The decision has divided opinions across the football world.

Some critics argue that the FIFA World Cup is the biggest stage in football and an opportunity many players never get. They believe national duty should come first during such a rare event. The debate intensified after French television presenter France Pierron criticized Doku's stance, comments that later sparked backlash and led to a public apology from both the presenter and her broadcaster.

However, many players, fans, and pundits have come out in support of Doku. England striker Ollie Watkins publicly defended the Belgian star, insisting that family moments like the birth of a child are once-in-a-lifetime experiences that should not be sacrificed for football.

Across social media and football communities, the majority opinion appears to lean toward supporting Doku's choice. Many fans argue that while another World Cup may come along, a child's birth happens only once. Discussions on fan forums and social platforms have been filled with messages emphasizing that footballers are human beings first before athletes.

The situation raises an important question:

Should professional athletes prioritize their careers during major tournaments, or should family always come first?

Jeremy Doku's dilemma is about more than football. It highlights the balancing act many people face between professional responsibilities and personal milestones.

No matter which side of the debate you stand on, one thing is certain: moments like the birth of a child and the opportunity to play at a World Cup are both incredibly rare. Doku is being forced to choose between two dreams that mean everything to him.

💬 What do you think? If you were Jeremy Doku, would you stay with Belgium at the World Cup or leave to be present for the birth of your first child?