Belgian FA reveals remarkable reason for star player's World Cup departure

Doku has temporarily left the Belgian World Cup training camp for the birth of his child. The Manchester City forward flew to London, where his wife gave birth to a son on Sunday. He is expected to rejoin the Belgian squad in Seattle on Tuesday evening. Belgium kicked off their World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Egypt, followed by another stalemate against Iran (0-0) on Sunday. The team faces New Zealand on Saturday morning (5:00 AM CET) in their third and final group stage match, where they must secure their spot in the knockout phase.

"Jérémy received news on Sunday, before the match, that the birth was imminent," the Belgian FA reported on Monday. "In consultation with the Red Devils' medical staff, it was decided to temporarily allow him to join his wife in London. There, he and his wife became proud parents of a son. Praise."

Belgium's team doctor, Brahim Hacene, stated that the ailing Doku was able to make the journey with medical support. "Since he had been receiving adjusted medication for several days, he was able to fly without medical risk to be with his family during this special moment. He was accompanied by fellow doctor Brecht De Coninck. Everything went very well, and mother, father, and son are doing excellently," was his official statement.

Belgium has a similar situation within the squad. Brandon Mechele and his partner are also expecting a child any moment, meaning the Club Brugge defender could also temporarily leave the Belgian World Cup camp in the coming days to be present for the birth.

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