Keypoints:
- Doku receives Ghanaian passport in Accra
- Footballer hints at emotional homecoming
- May become eligible to play for Ghana
MANCHESTER City winger Jeremy Doku has taken a significant step in reconnecting with his heritage by officially receiving his Ghanaian passport—bringing his long-held dream of formally embracing his roots to life.
The 23-year-old Premier League star, born in Antwerp to Ghanaian parents David and Belinda Doku, finalised the documentation during a recent visit to Ghana. His new status as a dual citizen affirms both his Belgian upbringing and his ancestral identity.
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed the news via a post on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
‘Jeremy Baffour Doku receives a Ghanaian passport for the first time. This was the wish of Jérémy and his family when they called on me last week — glad we successfully delivered chip-embedded passports today. As a dual citizen he is legally entitled to a Ghanaian passport.’
‘Home is a feeling’: Doku’s emotional moment
Doku also shared the moment on his social media platforms, posting a carousel of images and heartfelt reflections on what Ghana means to him.
‘Home is more than a place — it’s the laughter of family, the energy in the air, the colours, the smiles in the streets, the food,’ he wrote. ‘Home, for me, is a feeling! Ghana gives me all of that and more. I thank God for giving me the opportunity to spend time with my loved ones and the chance to see the beauty of this country with fresh eyes.’
The winger, who joined Manchester City in August 2023 in a €65 million transfer, described Ghana as his land of ‘love’ and ‘legacy’.
Could Doku wear Black Stars jersey?
With his new Ghanaian passport, questions are now swirling around whether Doku might consider switching his international allegiance from Belgium to Ghana.
Although he debuted for Belgium’s senior team in 2020 and has since earned multiple caps, FIFA’s revised eligibility rules allow players who had fewer than three senior appearances before turning 21 to switch national teams—if other conditions are met.
Doku’s open display of affection for Ghana has fuelled speculation that he may be open to donning the Black Stars jersey in the future.
Ghana’s football authorities have in recent years successfully recruited diaspora players to bolster the national team. These include Iñaki Williams, who switched allegiance from Spain, and Tariq Lamptey, formerly of England U21s.
A growing diaspora trend in football
Doku’s passport acquisition is part of a broader trend of European-born African footballers reclaiming their heritage through sport. The Ghanaian Football Association has stepped up efforts to engage the diaspora and attract elite talent.
If Doku joins the Black Stars, he will add to a potent attacking line-up already featuring stars like Mohammed Kudus of Tottenham Hotspur and Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo.
With blistering pace, strong dribbling skills and Premier League pedigree, Doku would be a valuable asset as Ghana looks to strengthen its squad ahead of future continental and global tournaments.
Whether or not he decides to represent Ghana on the pitch, one thing is clear: Jeremy Doku is no longer just visiting—he’s come home.
