Eli Junior Kroupi earns first call-up to French national team amid Marcus Thuram's injury

Eli Junior Kroupi, a 20-year-old striker currently with Bournemouth, has been called up to the French national football team for the first time. This selection comes after Marcus Thuram, the initial squad member, suffered a hamstring injury that forced his withdrawal from the November Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey.

Kroupi is viewed as a rising star in French football, having previously played for Lorient before moving to Bournemouth in 2025. Despite a recent foot injury, Kroupi demonstrated notable form last season, scoring 13 goals in the English Premier League. He has already made an impact this season by providing a decisive assist post-injury recovery. His call-up marks him as one of three newcomers, alongside Pablo Pagis and Saël Kumbedi, invited to join the national team gathering.

Coach Zinédine Zidane had mentioned Kroupi as part of a wider list of potentials but initially hesitated due to his injury. Kroupi's inclusion now underscores his promising talent and readiness to contribute at the highest level.

Born and raised in France, Eli Junior Kroupi is the son of former professional player Eli Kroupi, a former Ivorian international. Despite eligibility to represent Côte d'Ivoire and Portugal, Kroupi chose France, embracing his connection to his birthplace. His father confirmed the complexity of this choice but supports his son's career path, maintaining a clear boundary between their professional and family relationships.

Kroupi's rising profile has already drawn attention from football giants including PSG, Arsenal, and Barcelona, reflecting his ascending trajectory in European football. His selection to the national squad represents a significant milestone in his career and a fresh injection of talent into the French team as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures.