Jérémy Doku Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 28, 2025
At just 22 years old, Jérémy Doku has evolved from a promising young talent into one of the most feared wingers in world football.
Now a key figure at Manchester City, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, Doku has become a symbol of speed, skill, and relentless attacking intent.
Then: The Early Spark – A Speedster from Antwerp (2002–2020)
1. Humble Beginnings in Belgium
Born on May 27, 2002, in Antwerp, Belgium, Jérémy Doku grew up in a multicultural neighborhood with a deep love for football. Inspired by dribblers like Neymar and Arjen Robben, he developed a style centered on explosive pace, close control, and audacious 1v1 skills.
He joined Anderlecht’s famed youth academy at age 10, where his talent quickly stood out. Coaches noted his unmatched acceleration, agility, and confidence—traits that made him a nightmare for defenders in youth tournaments.
2. Professional Debut and Breakthrough at Rennes
In 2018, at just 16 years old, Doku made his professional debut for Anderlecht, becoming one of the youngest players in the club’s history. Despite limited success in a struggling team, his individual brilliance shone through.
In 2020, he made a bold move to Stade Rennais in Ligue 1 for a reported €25 million—a significant investment in a 17-year-old. The gamble paid off.
At Rennes, Doku blossomed:
- 38 appearances, 5 goals, 8 assists in his first season
- Named Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year (2021)
- Became one of the most dribbled past player in Europe (over 3.5 successful dribbles per game)
His fearless style—cutting in from the right wing, beating multiple defenders, and driving toward goal—earned him the nickname “The Belgian Bullet.”
Related: Evan Ferguson Then and Now
The Rise: From Ligue 1 Sensation to Premier League Project (2022–2023)
1. A Statement Signing by Manchester City
In August 2023, Manchester City signed Jérémy Doku for a reported €55 million—one of the biggest transfers for a winger in club history. The move was seen as a long-term investment in pace and directness, complementing City’s possession-based style.
His early months were challenging:
- Struggled with consistency
- Criticized for over-dribbling and lack of end product
- Played mostly as a rotation player behind Riyad Mahrez and Phil Foden
But Pep Guardiola remained patient, famously stating:
“He’s not ready yet. But when he is, he will be unstoppable.”
2. Injury and Growth
Doku’s 2023–24 season was interrupted by a hamstring injury that kept him out for two months. However, during recovery, he worked intensely on:
- Decision-making in the final third
- Defensive contribution
- Finishing and crossing accuracy
He returned with renewed focus, showing glimpses of his potential in crucial Champions League and Premier League matches.
Related: Benjamin Šeško Then and Now
Now: The Star Emerges – Doku in 2025
1. Breakout Season and Tactical Evolution
By the 2024–25 season, Jérémy Doku had transformed into a match-winning force for Manchester City. With the departure of Kyle Walker and the aging of older stars, Doku stepped up as a primary weapon on the right flank—often playing as a right wing-back in a 3-2-4-1 formation or as a traditional winger.
His stats in 2025 reflect his evolution:
- 14 goals and 12 assists in all competitions
- Highest dribble success rate in the Premier League (72%)
- Top 3 in take-ons completed per game
- Crucial goals against Liverpool, Arsenal, and Real Madrid
His ability to stretch defenses, beat fullbacks 1v1, and deliver under pressure has made him indispensable.
2. Tactical Role Under Guardiola
Guardiola has masterfully integrated Doku into City’s system:
- Uses his pace to counter-press and transition quickly
- Employs him as a “vertical winger” to disrupt compact defenses
- Leverages his stamina to track back and support defense
In big games, Doku has become the x-factor—the player who can unlock a stalemate with a single burst of speed or a mazy run.
3. Key Contributions in 2024–25 Successes
By early 2025, Doku played a pivotal role in Manchester City’s pursuit of silverware:
- Premier League 2024–25 Title Charge – instrumental in tight wins
- UEFA Champions League 2024–25 Campaign – scored in the quarterfinal against Bayern Munich
- EFL Cup 2025 Winner – assisted the winning goal in the final
He is now considered one of the most dangerous wingers in Europe, drawing comparisons to peak Cristiano Ronaldo and Arjen Robben for his ability to decide games single-handedly.
Related: Dominik Szoboszlai Then and Now
International Career: Belgium’s New Flagbearer
1. Rise in the Red Devils
Since his senior debut in 2020, Doku has become a vital part of the Belgium national team. In 2024, he played a key role in Belgium’s Euro 2024 campaign, helping them reach the quarterfinals.
Despite the team’s transition from its “Golden Generation,” Doku emerged as a symbol of the future—leading attacks with pace and fearlessness.
2. Leadership and National Pride
With Eden Hazard retired and Kevin De Bruyne aging, Doku is increasingly seen as Belgium’s next superstar. His performances have inspired a new generation of young Belgian talents.
He proudly represents his Congolese-Belgian heritage, often dedicating goals to his family and community in Antwerp.
Related: Giovanni Reyna Then and Now
Personal Life and Character
Doku is known for his calm demeanor, humility, and strong work ethic. Despite his fame, he remains grounded, often crediting his parents and coaches for his success.
He is active on social media—where he has over 8 million followers—sharing training clips, family moments, and messages of motivation.
In 2024, he launched the Doku Foundation, supporting youth football programs in underprivileged areas of Belgium and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Cultural Impact and Legacy (2025)
By 2025, Jérémy Doku has become more than just a footballer:
- A symbol of modern wing play – blending speed, skill, and tactical intelligence
- A role model for young African-European athletes
- A marketing sensation, with major deals from Puma, EA Sports, and Pepsi
His signature celebration—pointing to the sky with both hands—has become iconic, symbolizing gratitude and ambition.
He’s also a social media sensation, with TikTok and Instagram reels of his dribbles going viral worldwide.
Conclusion: Jérémy Doku – Then and Now (2025)
- Then: A 17-year-old in Rennes, dazzling Ligue 1 with his feet but still raw, searching for consistency.
- Now: A Premier League star, Champions League contender, and future Ballon d’Or candidate—leading Manchester City into a new era with speed, soul, and swagger.
Jérémy Doku’s journey is a testament to patience, belief, and transformation. He wasn’t an instant success at City—but through hard work, adaptation, and courage, he has become one of the most exciting players on the planet.
As the 2025 season unfolds, one thing is clear:
Jérémy Doku isn’t just arriving.
He’s taking over.
⚡ “I don’t run to impress. I run to win.” – Jérémy Doku
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