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Ollie Watkins supports Jeremy Doku's World Cup decision on family

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 22, 2026, 9:26 AM

Last updated Jun 22, 2026

Ollie Watkins supports Jeremy Doku's World Cup decision on family

Summary

Ollie Watkins voiced support for Jeremy Doku's decision to leave the World Cup for the birth of his first child. During a press conference in the United States, Watkins criticized the negative reactions to Doku’s plan, emphasizing the importance of family during such a significant moment. Doku, currently participating in the World Cup with Belgium, plans to return home when his wife goes into labor, a decision that has drawn mixed opinions from the media. Belgium has yet to secure their position in the knockout stage after drawing their first two group matches. Watkins underscored that personal priorities should come before football, reinforcing Doku's right to make this choice.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Ollie Watkins defends Jeremy Doku's decision to leave the World Cup.
•Doku’s wife is due to give birth in July during the tournament.
•Belgium has drawn both of their group games so far.
•Watkins highlights the importance of family during critical life moments.

Latest Updates

9:26 AMYahoo Sports — England World Cup striker Ollie Watkins gives perfect response to Jeremy Doku debate

What they're saying

"
Jeremy Doku’s plan to leave the World Cup for the birth of his first child has split opinion, and Ollie Watkins has now come down firmly on the Belgium winger’s side. The Manchester City star confirmed this week that he intends to fly home when his wife goes into labor, sparking a debate that spread quickly across the European media.
— Yahoo Sports

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