Jeremy Doku has discussed how dribbling with the ball is one of his favourite things to do on the pitch – and who his biggest inspirations behind his style are.
Doku signed for Manchester City from Stade Rennais in the summer and has enjoyed a good start to life at the Etihad Stadium.
Brought in to replace Riyad Mahrez, the 21-year-old already has an impressive 11 goal contributions in his debut season at City but it’s with the ball at his feet where he has truly stood out.
Doku has dazzled fans with his lightning pace and even quicker skills when dribbling with the ball.
It’s no surprise the winger considers Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho as his biggest inspirations behind his unique style.
Jeremy Doku names Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho as big inspirations
Talking to Man City’s in-house media, he said: “I liked Messi, Ronaldinho – there were a lot of dribblers that I really liked.
“When I was little, I watched a lot of videos on YouTube then I created something of my own and played on the street, now I’m just Jeremy and my own.
“Dribbling just brings me joy. I don’t just dribble to dribble – when I do I feel it is the right thing to do.
“Sometimes I have to work on it, but I try to get past my man and look for a good solution. It brings me a lot of joy.”
A big chance for Jeremy Doku
Despite his impressive start, Doku has found himself out of his best form in recent weeks.
A muscle injury sidelined him at the end of 2023 and he is yet to score or assist since returning to action in the new year.
With Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva playing brilliantly, as well as Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland returning to action, Doku could be facing some time out of the side.
Or, at least, he might have done if City weren’t hit with injuries on Tuesday.
Both Bernardo and Jack Grealish picked up knocks in Denmark and are doubts for Saturday’s game at Chelsea.
If the pair are sidelined, Doku has a clearer route into the team and it’s a huge chance for him to make the spot his own.
