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  • Doku ruled out of Belgium’s World Cup match vs Iran due to illness
  • Man City winger left training early in the week with breathing issues
  • Forward started Belgium’s opener vs Egypt, playing into the 86th minute of a 1-1 draw

Jeremy Doku has been ruled out of Belgium’s FIFA World Cup Group G match against Iran with a respiratory infection, as per a new report.

Doku started Belgium’s opening match of the tournament against Egypt, playing into the 86th minute of a game that ended 1-1, before reportedly leaving a training session early in the days that followed due to breathing issues.

The illness has now ruled him out of Sunday’s clash with Iran at SoFi Stadium in the Los Angeles area. The news comes during a tournament in which the Manchester City winger has also been the subject of attention off the pitch, having indicated he could leave the squad if necessary for the birth of his first child during the competition.

Doku’s wife is due in early July, which falls during the expected knockout stages – and the City forward has controversially drawn criticism for wanting to step away from international duty to attend the birth of his child.

Report: Doku misses Iran clash through illness

As per RTBF Sport, Jeremy Doku is ruled out for Belgium vs Iran in FIFA World Cup Group G due to a respiratory infection.

Belgium need a strong result against Iran to remain on course for top spot in the group, having been held to a surprise draw by Egypt in their opener.

The Red Devils complete their group fixtures against New Zealand in Vancouver on Friday and Doku will be hoping that his side can progress to the knockout stages of the tournament after an impressive 2025-26 season with Manchester City.

What is the wider context for Doku’s tournament?

Doku has been one of City’s most important players over the past year, contributing significantly to the club’s run to the FA Cup and Carabao Cup double last season under Pep Guardiola.

His illness is expected to be short-term, with Belgium’s medical staff monitoring his recovery ahead of the final group game against New Zealand.

Should Belgium win their group and progress through the first knockout round, they would face co-hosts the United States on July 6 – timing that falls close to the period in which Doku has signalled his intention to be present for the birth of his child, regardless of the football calendar.

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Source: Cityxtra.co.uk