Zidane calls Junior Kroupi: the French response to Thuram's forfait

In the heart of Clairefontaine, where young talents train under the watchful eyes of Zinedine Zidane, the 2006‑born Junior Kroupi has been called up to the senior national team to replace Marcus Thuram, who is out with a right hamstring pain.

A line of strikers is being renewed and finds proper recognition at the highest level. The new talent joins a tradition of forwards who have marked the history of French football.

Following Marcus Thuram's withdrawal due to a right hamstring pain, Zinedine Zidane, head coach of France, called up Junior Kroupi to the senior national team for the first time. The decision was announced immediately after the medical assessment on Thuram.

A footballing son, Kroupi grew up at Lorient and now plays for Bournemouth. The 2006 class then arrived at Clairefontaine after wearing the jersey of the French youth teams in 2025.

Born in France to an Ivorian father, former striker Elie Kroupi, and a Portuguese mother, the youngster turned down overtures from Portugal and coach Roberto Martínez for the 2026 World Cup. He thus confirmed his desire to represent his native country.

Zidane’s new generation: Kroupi chooses France over Portugal

Impact in the Premier League

The Cherries' striker made his mark in the Premier League with 13 goals in 35 games last season. The tally came despite a summer foot injury.

Returned on October 25, Kroupi provided an assist in under 50 minutes of play. That gesture confirmed the killer instinct he displayed the previous year.

His performance was boosted by six goals against English big clubs, including Tottenham, Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City. The displays have turned the international market's spotlight onto him.

Zidane backs Eli Junior Kroupi to replace Thuram for France

Before the move to England, his name had been linked with clubs such as Arsenal, Barcelona and Paris Saint‑Germain last summer. Now the 2006 class is ready to impress also with the France jersey.