Eli Junior Kroupi Chooses France Over Ivory Coast
Eli Junior Kroupi has chosen France over Ivory Coast and Portugal, confirming his ambition to represent the French senior national team.
OFFICIAL: Eli Junior Kroupi Chooses France Over Ivory Coast and Portugal
Eli Junior Kroupi has made his decision on his international future, choosing to represent France despite being eligible to play for Ivory Coast and Portugal.
The Bournemouth forward has now reaffirmed his ambition to represent the French senior national team, ending speculation over which country he will choose at international level. The 20-year-old has already represented France across several youth categories, including the Under-21 team. Source: L’Équipe
Kroupi was eligible for Ivory Coast through his father, former Ivorian international Éli Kroupi, while his mother's family background also made him eligible for Portugal. However, the young attacker has made it clear that his international ambitions lie with France.
Speaking in an interview with DAZN, Kroupi explained that his decision was natural because he was born in France, grew up playing football there and had represented the country throughout his youth career.
“I've always played for France at youth level. I was born in France, I started playing football in France. I don't see myself going to a culture I don't know. So, obviously, the French national team is the objective,” Kroupi said, according to French media reports. Source: Eurosport
Portugal had previously explored the possibility of recruiting the forward. In May 2026, former Portugal coach Roberto Martínez confirmed that the national team had approached Kroupi but respected his preference for France.
Kroupi's decision represents another important step in the career of one of Bournemouth's exciting young attacking talents. His performances in the Premier League have attracted attention, and his long-term ambition is now firmly focused on earning opportunities with France's senior team.
However, choosing France does not automatically guarantee a place in the senior squad. Kroupi will still need to impress with his performances and compete for selection as he continues his development.
For now, the message is clear: Eli Junior Kroupi wants to represent France, turning down the alternative international paths available to him through his family heritage.
The next challenge will be to translate that ambition into a senior international debut and establish himself among France's attacking options.
