Jérémy Doku
MCI
Left Winger
Wide Forward
May 27, 2002 (24)
Right
5'8"
146 lb
Starts, earns assist
Doku assisted once to go with one shot (zero on goal), five crosses (two accurate) and one chance created in Saturday's 3-2 victory versus Ipswich Town.
Analysis: Doku would find the starting XI for the first time in league play this season Saturday, with the winger playing 77 minutes in the win. He would bag a goal contribution for a second straight league contest, finding Phil Foden in the 19th minute for an assist. The winger seems to have not missed a beat since returning from injury this season, already with a goal and an assist in his three league appearances (two starts).
Ramping up fitness
Doku has been working to regain physical form while continuing to train with the team following his recovery from a calf problem in September.
Analysis: Doku has recorded only 15 minutes of Premier League play since he got hurt in August, so he may come off the bench in upcoming fixtures, having also missed international duty in recent weeks. At his best, the winger would be one of the most talented dribblers in the competition and a solid playmaking threat. However, his return to meaningful action will likely be a gradual one. Meanwhile, Iliman Ndiaye and Antoine Semenyo (ankle) are expected to be the most active wide elements for City.
Likely available against Sunderland
Doku (calf) is likely to be available for Sunday's clash against Sunderland, according to coach Enzo Maresca. "Probably he can be available for Sunderland."
Analysis: Doku had missed the start of the season due to a recurrent calf injury suffered ahead of the campaign but the winger is closing on a return. This new update now offers a clearer target for his comeback, positioning him to potentially feature in City's final match before the September international break. Doku will now have to compete with newcomer Iliman Ndiaye and Antoine Semenyo for a starting role under new manager Enzo Maresca.
Not in squad vs. Norwich
Doku (calf) isn't in the squad for Thursday's EFL Cup match against Norwich City.
Analysis: Manager Enzo Maresca rotated the side almost completely for this cup match and named several projected starters on the bench, but Doku wasn't among them. The winger, who's reportedly inching closer to returning, as Maresca said in Wednesday's presser, will aim to be an option Sunday against Sunderland in City's final match before the September international break.
Will miss 2-3 weeks
Doku (calf) is set to miss between two and three weeks, according to manager Enzo Maresca. "At the moment, the only one [unavailable] is Jeremy Doku," said Maresca. "At the moment, [he's out for] 2-3 weeks, no more than that."
Analysis: Doku sustained a calf injury in the 3-0 loss to Arsenal in the Community Shield, and the star winger will miss a couple of matches at the very least. Based on the projected timeline, Doku could be in line to return against Coventry City on Sep. 5 or maybe against Manchester United on Sep. 13. With Doku out, Phil Foden and Jack Grealish could be options to start on the right wing since Savinho (illness) is likely headed for an exit before the end of the summer transfer window.
Comes off the bench against USA
Doku drew three fouls, completed eight passes and created one scoring chance in 23 minutes in Monday's 4-1 victory over USA.
Analysis: Doku was deployed as a sub for the first time in the competition following a subdued performance against Senegal, and Dodi Lukebakio had a quality display in relief. He might have to fight for minutes going forward. He has recorded three shots (one on target), four chances created and four crosses (two accurate) so far, with no goal contributions.
Struggles against Senegal
Doku recorded two crosses (one accurate) in Wednesday's 3-2 win against Senegal.
Analysis: Doku would not have the match he wanted Wednesday, as the speed and physicality of Senegal proved to match his capabilities well. He would only record two crosses before leaving the field, subbed off after 56 minutes. The pacey and skilful Manchester City winger is yet to score a goal contribution this World Cup, something he will hope to change in the round of 16.
Two chances created in return
Doku had two shots (one on goal), one cross (one accurate) and two chances created in Friday's 5-1 victory over New Zealand.
Analysis: Doku returned to Belgium's starting XI after missing Sunday's scoreless draw with Iran, having briefly traveled to London for the birth of his first child before rejoining the squad ahead of Friday's must-win finale. He recorded two shots (one on target) and created two chances, providing his trademark pace and directness before making way for Matias Fernandez-Pardo in the second half with Belgium firmly in control. The Red Devils wrapped up a dominant 5-1 victory to finish atop Group G and punch their ticket to the Round of 32.
Starting against New Zealand
Doku (illness) is in the starting XI for Friday's match against New Zealand.
Analysis: Doku was expected to start on the bench after dealing with an illness and not being 100 percent, but will instead start from the jump, with the forward given the starting role on the left flank. He will be a major part of the game plan for Belgium, as he is their best attacker and will be the center point of most attacks. He is still in search of a goal contribution this World Cup after missing the second game due to the birth of his child, hoping to earn his first Friday as he looks to help Belgium through to the knockouts.
Set for supersub role
Doku (personal) is back with the Belgium squad after attending the birth of his first son in London, and is expected to start on the bench against New Zealand on Saturday given his lack of training over the past week, according to coach Rudi Garcia, per RTBF. "He came back just three days ago, so he hasn't trained for seven full days. We're happy to have him here. He will probably come off the bench. Normally he won't start. He's a player who can make a difference, but he doesn't have 90 minutes in his legs."
Analysis: Doku returned to the squad after missing Sunday's scoreless draw against Iran for personal reasons, giving Belgium another explosive attacking weapon ahead of the decisive group-stage finale against New Zealand. Coach Rudi Garcia is expected to use him as a game-changing option off the bench rather than in the starting XI, as he continues to build back to full fitness after dealing with breathing issues earlier in the tournament.
Back for New Zealand clash
Doku (personal) travelled to London with the approval of the Belgian federation and team doctor to be present for the birth of his first son, and will rejoin the squad Tuesday evening in Seattle ahead of the crucial clash against New Zealand, the federation announced.
Analysis: Doku had already missed Sunday's goalless draw with Iran due to illness, and his personal absence raised questions over his availability for the New Zealand fixture. The winger's return to the squad on Tuesday evening gives coach Rudi Garcia a key attacking option back in contention for what promises to be a decisive group stage clash, with Belgium desperate to avoid a second consecutive group stage elimination at a World Cup. His presence on the right wing will be a significant boost as the Red Devils look to secure their place in the knockout rounds.
Out Sunday
Doku (illness) is out for Sunday's clash with Iran, Belgium announced.
Analysis: Doku is officially ruled out for Sunday's clash due to an illness that will put him out for the second match, but he could be back for a Friday clash with New Zealand. Doku's absence could bring Alexis Saelemaekers into the starting XI for Sunday's clash, with Trossard sliding over to the left wing.
Struggles to influence match
Doku had one shot (zero on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and one chance created in Monday's 1-1 draw against Egypt.
Analysis: Doku had a difficult evening as the left winger in Monday's 1-1 draw with Egypt at Seattle Stadium, registering just one shot off-target and one inaccurate cross while losing the majority of his duels against an Egyptian backline that was physically disciplined and well-organized throughout. The Manchester City winger was unable to find the space and pace he needs to be at his most dangerous, with Egypt's defensive structure repeatedly cutting off his inside runs and limiting his influence to occasional flashes that never translated into clear-cut opportunities. His directness and ability to take on defenders at pace remain Belgium's most explosive wide weapon, and unlocking those qualities against a deeper defensive block will be a key tactical priority heading into their next group fixture against Iran.
Cleared for Egypt match
Doku (undisclosed) resumed training with Belgium after leaving Tuesday's session early due to a breathing issue and is in peak condition for the Egypt match, Belgium press officer David Steegen told Yallakora. "Doku is in peak physical condition and fully ready for the Egypt match"
Analysis: Doku sparked brief concern after cutting his Tuesday training session short, though the problem was nothing more than a minor breathing issue. He has since returned to full training and will be fully ready for a starting spot in Belgium's opening game against Egypt.
Exits training early with concern
Doku was forced to cut short Belgium's training session early after feeling some discomfort, though the concern is not expected to be serious. according to HLN
Analysis: Doku left the session before the hour mark and headed inside for treatment during Belgium's first full training session on American soil. The discomfort is however not expected to be significant, with the winger anticipated to return to group training quickly, possibly as early as the following day. Belgium's opening World Cup fixture against Egypt is not considered at risk, which will come as a relief given Doku's importance to the side.
Electric winger for Belgium
Doku has been named in Belgium's World Cup squad and figures to be one of the tournament's most entertaining and dangerous wide players.
Analysis: Doku has been a constant menace throughout the season with Manchester City, contributing seven goals and 11 assists alongside 86 key passes across 44 appearances including 30 starts. His ability to take on defenders in one-on-one situations at blistering pace makes him a nightmare to contain, and his capacity to unlock a game in an instant through sheer individual brilliance sets him apart from most wide players in the world. The Belgian winger consistently draws fouls, creates space for teammates and generates high-quality chances, making him a premium asset. Doku is one of the cornerstones of coach Rudi Garcia's attacking setup, bringing the unpredictability and direct running that defenses struggle to plan. Belgium will look to him as a game-changer capable of producing moments of magic, and his combination of speed, technique and end product makes him one of the most dangerous wide options at the entire tournament.
Continues scoring streak
Doku scored one goal to go with four shots (two on goal), three crosses (two accurate) and six chances created in Saturday's 3-0 win against Brentford.
Analysis: Doku looked unstoppable again as he took the field Saturday, putting in another signature game from the flank as his dribbling and speed continue to be too much for a Premier League defense. He would start the scoring for City in the 60th minute, scoring on yet another curler from the left corner of the box for a third straight match with a goal, earning four goals during that span. He has now hit 10 goal contributions on the season in 27 appearances (18 starts), notching five goals and five assists.
Brace leads to draw
Doku scored two goals to go with three shots (two on goal), five crosses (one accurate) and four chances created in Monday's 3-3 draw versus Everton.
Analysis: Doku once again had a brilliant match from the flank, being the main source of attacks for City and headaches for Everton, leading to numerous chances and fouls drawn. He would go on to silence the critics of his goal-scoring ability, netting a brace that included a stoppage-time goal to force the draw. The Belgian now sits with four goals and five assists this season, with his eyes on double-digits as they end the campaign.
Bags assist
Doku assisted once to go with two shots (zero on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and two chances created in Wednesday's 1-0 victory against Burnley.
Analysis: Doku came up with an assist Wednesday, as the attacker would find Erling Haaland in the fifth minute for the lone goal of the match. Doku is now up to two goal contributions in his past three games, adding a goal against Chelsea. He continues to produce despite only seven league goal contributions as a winger, as his dribbling and chance-creating are usually the spearhead of most attacks.
Put game to rest
Doku scored one goal to go with two shots (one on goal), three crosses (zero accurate) and one chance created in Sunday's 3-0 win against Chelsea.
Analysis: Doku would have another eventful night on the flank, creating chances for his club with his masterful footwork, recording one chance created, two shots and three crosses. His best moment would come late in the 68th minute, scoring a goal to put the game out of reach for Chelsea. The winger is now up six goal contributions in league play this season, with two coming as goals.
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