Manchester City winger Jérémy Doku has become a first-time father after welcoming a baby boy, Praise, with his wife.

Doku was granted permission to temporarily leave the Belgian national team camp ahead of last Sunday's match against Iran after medical staff confirmed it was safe for him to travel. The move allowed him to be present in London for the birth of his son.

According to team doctor Brahim Hacene, Doku received news that the birth was approaching shortly before the match. Since he had already been ruled out due to illness and was undergoing treatment, doctors determined that flying posed no health risks.

Hacene later confirmed that both parents and the newborn were doing well.

Before the tournament began, the 24-year-old had openly stated that he hoped to be present for the birth of his first child. His stance sparked debate, with some commentators questioning whether he should leave the squad during a major competition.

The controversy intensified after a presenter on French sports channel L’Equipe suggested that fathers play little role during childbirth and that many players would have eagerly taken Doku’s place at the World Cup. The remarks drew widespread criticism online, prompting the broadcaster to issue an apology and distance itself from the comments. The presenter was subsequently suspended.