Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku has been ruled out of Belgium’s World Cup clash with Iran after struggling with a respiratory infection. The 24-year-old played in Belgium’s 1-1 draw with Egypt but has since missed training in Los Angeles and will not be involved at SoFi Stadium.
The update leaves Belgium without one of their sharpest attacking outlets for a Group H match that has already taken on extra weight after the opening-round draw. Doku’s pace, one-v-one threat and ability to stretch a low block are central to the way Belgium can change games, and his absence gives Rudi Garcia an immediate selection problem.
The issue was described as a worsening cold, with medical staff reportedly prescribing antibiotics and giving Doku time to recover, according to a fresh update from The Sun.
Doku absence adds to Belgium’s World Cup noise
Doku’s illness has arrived during a noisy week around the City forward. He has also faced criticism after saying he could briefly leave Belgium’s World Cup camp in July to be present for the birth of his first child, a decision the Belgian federation is understood to support.
For City supporters, the immediate concern is simpler: Belgium now need Doku fit for their final group game against New Zealand, while Manchester City will want one of their most explosive wide players protected during a demanding summer.
There is no suggestion of a long-term problem at this stage, but Belgium can hardly afford the disruption. After dropping points against Egypt, losing Doku for Iran removes a player capable of turning a tight group match with one carry, one burst, or one delivery from the right moment.
