LONDON (AP) — England striker Ollie Watkins has defended Belgian winger Jérémy Doku after the Manchester City star faced heavy criticism for his decision to temporarily leave the World Cup next month to attend the birth of his first child.
Doku, 24, is expecting the baby with his wife in the second week of July, a timeline that could coincide with the World Cup quarterfinals if Belgium advances. The announcement sparked backlash, most notably from French broadcaster France Pierron of L’Equipe, who described the decision as “disgusting.”
Watkins, who has two children, condemned the negative commentary and insisted that family must come first. “A first child only happens once. Someone labelled his decision disgusting, and that is not the way to talk about a birth,” Watkins said.
The Aston Villa forward emphasized the challenges of childbirth and the importance of supporting players’ personal choices. “I have seen what my wife has had to go through. A first child happens only once, and welcoming them is a blessing. I don’t think it is anyone else’s business,” he added.
The debate has sparked wider discussion in the football world about balancing professional commitments with family responsibilities. Reports indicate that one pundit has since backtracked on their criticism, while a presenter involved in the controversy has been suspended.
Doku’s decision highlights the growing tension between the demands of elite sport and the realities of personal life. While some fans argue that players should prioritize national duty during tournaments, others including Watkins stress that moments like the birth of a first child transcend football.
