World Cup 2026: ‘Pure football’ – Jeremy Doku tipped as Belgium’s X-factor by Alderweireld

Former Red Devils defender Toby Alderweireld has thrown the spotlight firmly on Jeremy Doku, describing the Manchester City forward as the player who could define Belgium’s World Cup campaign.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, the ex-Tottenham Hotspur defender insisted that while Doku’s numbers may not always dominate headlines, his influence on matches is undeniable.

According to Alderweireld, opposition teams often commit multiple defenders just to contain him, a tactical adjustment that opens space for others in the Belgian attack.

“Other teams put one, two, or three people close to him”

Alderweireld was direct in his assessment of Doku’s growing reputation on the international stage.

“Some people talk about Jeremy Doku not matching the assists and goals with the biggest players on this planet. But don’t forget how dangerous he is.

“Other teams put one, two, or three people close to him, which means space comes somewhere else. Other players profit from that. I think he’s our main talisman.”

The former defender stressed that Doku’s impact goes beyond statistics, highlighting how his presence alone can destabilise defensive structures.

Relentless attacking force at Manchester City and beyond

Doku’s rise at Manchester City has been marked by freedom in the attacking third, with the winger trusted to take on defenders repeatedly without hesitation. That approach has translated into consistent output, with the Belgian registering eight goals and 12 assists across 47 appearances last season.

For the Belgium national football team, he has already earned more than 40 caps, scoring seven times and steadily growing into a central attacking figure ahead of the World Cup.

Alderweireld believes this fearless mentality is what sets him apart from many of his peers.

“He’s so good, he’s so quick, strong. And when he does a dribble and it doesn’t work, he will do it again, again, again. So that’s his quality. He’s not thinking, ‘I did one dribble and I didn’t succeed, I will play it back.’ No, he goes again and again. So that’s our main player for Belgium, this World Cup. Yeah.”

“Pure football” as Belgium look to make impact

With Belgium set to face New Zealand, Egypt and Iran in the group stage, expectations are building around Doku’s ability to lead the attack and drive a deep tournament run.

Alderweireld ended his assessment by capturing the essence of the winger’s appeal in one line that has already begun to resonate among supporters.

“People are going to the stadium for him. If people want to see a World Cup match and they see Belgium, they think, okay, let’s see Doku again and let’s see how we get past people. Yeah, that’s nice to see. So I think it’s pure football. Doku is pure football.”