Jeremy Doku has been ruled out of Belgium's crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G fixture against Iran at the Los Angeles stadium on Monday due to illness, the Belgian team confirmed on Sunday. The absence of the Manchester City winger is a significant setback for a side that cannot afford another slip-up after being held to a 1-1 draw by Egypt in their opening match.

Official Confirmation

The Belgian football association announced the news on social media, stating: 'Due to illness, Doku will not be part of the squad for our upcoming game against Iran.' Head coach Rudi Garcia revealed he had known since Friday evening that the 24-year-old would be unavailable. 'He can't play, and so we'll be playing without him. I don't want to get players to play if they're not medically up for the game. I can get players to play even if they're not 100 percent physically, but 100 percent medically is [more important],' Garcia said at the pre-match press conference.

Garcia Backs Belgium to Win

Despite the setback, Garcia expressed full confidence in his squad. 'I'm absolutely 100 percent sure we'll be fine, and we'll be winning tomorrow,' he added. Belgium's ability to absorb the loss of a key attacking outlet will be tested against an Iranian side capable of organised defending.

Doku's Fitness Timeline and Personal Commitments

Doku had reportedly left a training session early due to breathing issues in the week leading up to Belgium's opening match against Egypt. He started that game and played until the 86th minute of the 1-1 draw. Beyond the Iran clash, his availability for any potential knockout-stage matches is also uncertain — his wife is due to give birth to their first child in the second week of July, which coincides with the tournament's later rounds.

Belgium's World Cup Stakes

Belgium, ranked 10th in the FIFA world rankings, need a positive result against Iran to stay on course for topping Group G. The two nations have met once at senior men's international level — Belgium claimed a 1-0 victory over Iran in the group stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Notably, this is the second time in a week that Belgium's preparation has been disrupted by Doku's health concerns.

Doku's Club Form and Contract

The winger has been among Manchester City's standout performers over the past year, playing a key role in the club's runs in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup. He has also recently signed a long-term contract extension, securing his future at the Etihad Stadium. His absence from the World Cup stage will be felt, both for Belgium and as a showcase opportunity for the player himself.

With the Group G race tightening, all eyes will be on whether Belgium can find the cutting edge without their first-choice left winger when they face Iran in Inglewood.