Eli Junior Kroupi is finally nearing the end of his recovery. The Bournemouth striker underwent surgery for a fractured foot in late July and returned to running and ball work this weekend. His target is now clear: to be back on the pitch against Manchester United on October 25, a timetable that could put him in contention for a first senior France call-up under Zinédine Zidane.
After several weeks on the sidelines, Kroupi is making significant progress. According to L’Équipe, the former Lorient forward has reached an important stage in his rehabilitation by resuming running and exercises with the ball. Bournemouth and his entourage do not want to take any risks, but October 25, when the club travels to Manchester United in the Premier League, is now the date being targeted.
Kroupi Already on Zidane’s Radar
The timing of his return could be ideal. A few weeks later, Zidane will announce his France squad for the November international break. According to L’Équipe, had it not been for his injury, the 20-year-old would probably have been considered for the current France camp, suggesting that his profile is already being seriously monitored by the senior national team. A November call-up will depend on his fitness and how quickly he can regain his rhythm with Bournemouth.
France will play two Nations League matches in November, travelling to Italy on November 12 before hosting Turkey in Bordeaux on November 15. If Kroupi returns against Manchester United on October 25, he would have just over two weeks and potentially several club matches to prove to Zidane that he is ready for international football.
At just 20, Kroupi is coming off an impressive Premier League season in which he scored 13 goals for Bournemouth. Competition for places in France’s attack remains fierce, especially after several months without competitive football, but the possibility is now very real: return against Manchester United, build up match fitness, and potentially earn a first senior France call-up in November.
