Emergency change in France! A young striker receives a surprise first call-up

One player's injury has opened the door to a career-defining opportunity for a rising French talent.

Details: According to RMC Sport, as reported by Foot Mercato, France head coach Zinedine Zidane has called up Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi to replace the injured Marcus Thuram. For the 20-year-old forward, this is his first-ever invitation to the senior national team.

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The French Football Federation confirmed that Thuram suffered discomfort in his right hamstring during Inter's match on Sunday. The problem prevented him from training on Monday, and further medical examinations revealed no improvement. In agreement with his club, the striker was released from international duty.

Zidane has therefore turned to Kroupi just days before France's next UEFA Nations League fixtures. Les Bleus are scheduled to visit Italy on November 12 before hosting Türkiye on November 15. The Bournemouth youngster could now make his senior international debut during this window.

The call-up is particularly significant because Kroupi has only recently returned from a foot injury that kept him out for several months. He had not been included in the original squad for the November matches, but the unexpected vacancy has changed the situation.

It's worth noting that Kroupi has already scored three goals in five appearances for France's under-21 team. In the 2025/26 Premier League season, he recorded 13 goals in 35 matches for Bournemouth.

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