Jérémy Doku is increasingly being likened to Eden Hazard as many now ask, Could he even eclipse Belgium’s all-time great? Walfoot reports that Doku “reaches Hazard’s standards” in dribbling speed, creativity, and explosive acceleration though he still needs to improve his end-product.
His former Anderlecht coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck once claimed Doku has the potential to outshine Hazard altogether.
At Manchester City, Pep Guardiola has praised Doku’s first few meters as “unstoppable,” highlighting a rare burst of pace that defines his game.
Doku’s rise has not just been anecdotal in a recent match, he became the first player since Hazard in 2019 to record 10+ dribbles, 10+ duels won, 3+ chances created, and 3+ shots on target in a single Premier League game.
Belgian media also praised his performance against Wales, calling him “unstoppable” and a genuine match-winner for the Red Devils.
Still, not everyone is convinced. Some critics cite his relative lack of goals and decision-making flaws compared to Hazard’s career peak.
Historically, Hazard’s legacy includes over 100 caps for Belgium, starring in top European leagues, and delivering consistently in big moments.
And while Doku’s dribbling is elite, he once completed 110 dribbles in a Ligue 1 season, according to Goal.com, he must become more decisive in the final third to truly match Hazard’s influence.
On the international stage, Doku is being seen as a key figure in Belgium’s next generation as the “golden generation” fades.
That said, his maturity under Guardiola is paying off as the manager has driven Doku to become more efficient with his talent rather than just a trickster.
Journalist Jan Mulder recently declared that if Doku continues his upward trajectory, he could become “the most famous Belgian of all time.”
Still, reaching Hazard’s hall-of-fame levels requires far more than flashes of brilliance, consistency, major trophies, and international success will decide if Doku becomes the greatest Belgian ever.
For now, the claim is ambitious but not unfounded though true in potential, but not yet in legacy.
Follow gheducate for more
Keep sharing
