"He left to cut the umbilical cord during the World Cup?" French anchor made derogatory remarks about Jeremy Doku after his wife gave birth; he was eventually fired... The coach said, "Have a safe trip."

*This content was translated by AI.

Belgium national team striker Jeremy Doku (24, Manchester City) rushed back to London during the World Cup schedule and safely held his first child in his arms.

The UK's "The Sun" reported on the 23rd (local time) that "Doku briefly left the Belgium national team's World Cup camp, boarded an emergency flight to London, and was by his wife's side to witness the birth of their first son."

Doku had missed the second group stage match (1-1 draw) against Iran in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America due to illness on the 21st. Upon learning of the imminent birth just before the match, Doku traveled to London accompanied by medical staff from the Royal Belgian Football Association and welcomed the birth of his son, "Frazes."

The Royal Belgian Football Association stated, "Both the mother and child are healthy, and Doku is scheduled to return to the national team camp in Seattle on the evening of the 23rd."

It was initially reported that Doku had planned to return home during major tournament matches, including the quarterfinals, which coincided with his child's expected due date. In response, French broadcaster "L'Équipe" host François Piéron launched into blatant criticism of Doku, saying, "Skipping the World Cup to cut the umbilical cord is a disgusting act." The remarks sparked international outrage, and Piéron was ultimately removed from the program on the 22nd.

Doku, who finished his delivery schedule earlier than expected, was able to start normally in the final group stage match against New Zealand on the 27th. Belgium finished third in their group after drawing 1-1 with Egypt in the first group stage match and 0-0 with Iran in the second.

Belgium national team coach Rudy Garcia also actively supported Doku's return. Coach Garcia stated, "Doku was already unable to play in the match due to illness," and added, "We have no intention of forcing a player who is not medically fully prepared to play."

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*This content was translated by AI.