In recent days, uncertainty has hovered over the international future of Eli Junior Kroupi. Revealed in Lorient during the 2023-2024 season in Ligue 1, starting with Merlus the following season in Ligue 2 for a total of 23 goals and 3 assists in 30 matches, the young striker is now in the heyday of Bournemouth.
For his first experience abroad, especially in the very tough championship that is the Premier League, the 19-year-old center forward impressed, bringing his tally to 12 goals in 31 matches. More than encouraging statistics which caught the eye of three different countries.
If Kroupi is French because he was born in Lorient, he also has Ivorian nationality, through his father, and turns out to be selectable with the Seleçao thanks to the origins of his mother and his grandmother. A difficult dilemma – or almost – for a player who has not yet been called up by a nation in A.
Eli Junior Kroupi was approached by Portugal, but…
This Tuesday, when Portugal’s list for the 2026 World Cup was announced, coach Roberto Martinez said he had contacted Eli Junior Kroupi. “ Before the March rally, he was approached. But it’s one thing to support players likely to wear the Portugal jersey. The will of the player is another. »
The Cherries striker would have chosen his native country. “
In this specific case, Eli Junior Kroupi wanted to represent France, and we respect his choice. » He notably played through the youth teams, from the under-16s in 2021 to the hopefuls in 2025 (5 caps, 3 goals).
