Eli Junior Kroupi Chooses France Over Portugal for 2026 World Cup

Eli Junior Kroupi, the promising 19-year-old forward currently dazzling the Premier League with Bournemouth, has confirmed his decision to represent France rather than Portugal for the 2026 World Cup.

Kroupi, born in France and also eligible to play for Portugal through his mother and grandmother, as well as for Côte d'Ivoire via his father, has evidently chosen to continue his international career with his birth country. Despite interest from Portugal, the Portuguese national coach Roberto Martinez confirmed the situation, explaining that they approached Kroupi ahead of their March squad gathering, but respected his desire to play for France and thus ceased pursuing him.

The young striker has scored 12 goals in 31 Premier League appearances this season, highlighting his rapid rise as one of football’s emerging talents. Trained initially at Lorient before moving to Bournemouth last summer, Kroupi has also represented France at youth levels, earning five caps with the French U21 team since 2025. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with interest from leading English clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United.

Portugal’s 2026 World Cup squad, announced by Martinez, includes veteran Cristiano Ronaldo and players from clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Al-Nassr. Yet, the absence of Kroupi from this squad is a result of his clear preference for France, confirmed both by Martinez and the player himself in prior interviews.

This decision marks an important moment for France as they prepare their squad for the upcoming World Cup, securing a highly talented young forward committed to the Bleu national team. Kroupi’s choice underscores his affinity for France and the country’s ongoing strategy to nurture talented dual-nationality players within its football system.