We will know in a little less than two weeks who will have the privilege of playing in the 2026 World Cup with the France team. It is Thursday May 14 that Didier Deschamps will announce his list. And for all those who want to travel to the United States, there isn’t much time left to show up.
Eli Junior Kroupi understood the instructions well. Author of an excellent first season in England, the former Lorient player scored again this Sunday with Bournemouth. He scored his team’s second goal, from the penalty spot, during a quiet victory against Crystal Palace (3-0).
It was Kroupi’s 12th goal of the season. And this allows him to equal the record for goals in a Premier League season for a player under 20, held by Robbie Fowler (Liverpool, 1993-1994) and Robbie Keane (Coventry City, 1999-2000). A great performance, because the former Merlus player has not always started (18 matches started out of 30). And a great way to knock on the door of the Blues.
Kroupi targets the Blues
While some are calling for the presence of Esteban Lepaul in Deschamps’ list, Eli Junior Kroupi is also applying to be this year’s surprise. With Hugo Ekitiké’s injury, and Randal Kolo Muani’s difficult season, there is perhaps a place to be taken among the attackers.
International hopeful (5 caps, 3 goals), Kroupi recalled in March that he wanted to play for the Blues, and not for another selection. “I am focused on the French selection. Representing the country where you were born can only be a bonus and a source of pride, confided the native of Lorient to Téléfoot. I have a special feeling as soon as I wear this jersey. I like to wear it. I am proud of my Portuguese and Ivorian origins, I will never forget where I come from. »
