Manchester City forward Jeremy Doku has spoken publicly for the first time following the birth of his son, Praise, as the Belgium international and his wife Shireen celebrated a significant milestone in their family life.
The 24-year-old winger temporarily stepped away from international duty during Belgium’s campaign after receiving news that his wife had gone into labour earlier than expected in London.
The development came shortly after Doku featured in Belgium’s opening Group G fixture, a closely contested 1-1 draw with Egypt.
With the support of the Belgian Football Association, Doku was immediately granted permission to leave the national team camp and travel to be with his family.
As a result, he was unavailable for Belgium’s subsequent goalless draw against Iran and also spent time recovering from a minor respiratory illness.
What might ordinarily have been regarded as a personal family matter soon became a major talking point across European football.
Doku’s decision to leave the squad generated debate in parts of the media, with comments made on French television drawing widespread criticism from fans and observers alike.
The focus, however, has since shifted away from controversy and back towards celebration, with the Manchester City attacker and his wife sharing heartfelt messages after the arrival of their first child.
Doku expresses gratitude after life-changing moment
The birth of Praise represents one of the most memorable moments in Doku’s life and comes during a crucial stage of his football career.
Since joining Manchester City, the Belgian has become known for his explosive pace, direct attacking play and ability to unsettle defenders in one-on-one situations.
In a message posted on Instagram, Doku thanked supporters, teammates and well-wishers who had reached out to him and his family during recent days.
“Thank you to everyone for the love, prayers and kind messages over the past few days,” the Manchester City winger wrote.
He went on to provide an update on both mother and child while reflecting on the significance of becoming a father.
“Shireen and Praise are doing great, and my heart is full of gratitude. Welcoming my son into the world is one of the greatest blessings God has ever given me.”
The winger also acknowledged the understanding shown by those around him, including the Belgian national team setup, before turning his attention back towards football.
“Thank you to the team for the support, now it’s time to get back to football and represent my country on the biggest stage.”
Doku concluded his message with a biblical reference and a note of appreciation.
“‘Every good and perfect gift is from above.’ James 1:17
May God bless you all. Peace, love and gratitude.”
Shireen also took to social media to celebrate the occasion and paid tribute to her husband for the support he provided throughout the birth process.
“The best birth partner imaginable by the way! We couldn’t have done it without you papa,” she wrote on Instagram.
Her message offered a glimpse into the family’s joy during a week that has attracted considerable public attention.
While debate had surrounded Doku’s temporary departure from the Belgium camp, the positive reactions following the birth of Praise have largely overshadowed the earlier criticism.
Belgium boosted by Doku’s return to camp
Belgium officials confirmed that the winger has already returned to the national team’s training base in the United States after spending time with his family.
His availability is viewed as a major boost for head coach Rudi Garcia, whose side are preparing for an important conclusion to their Group G campaign.
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Doku’s pace, creativity and dribbling ability were notably absent during Belgium’s draw against Iran, with the team lacking some of the attacking penetration he regularly provides from wide areas.
National team staff are now working closely with the player to ensure he quickly regains peak physical condition ahead of Belgium’s decisive fixture against New Zealand.
Looking beyond international football, Doku is expected to enjoy a short summer break before returning to club duties.
Manchester City are entering a new era following the departure of former manager Pep Guardiola, with the club continuing to reshape its sporting project under new leadership.
As preparations begin for the upcoming season, Doku remains one of the key figures expected to play a leading role in City’s attack.
