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Teen Star Kroupi Rejects Portugal for France
19 May
Summary
- Portugal's coach Martinez approached Kroupi for the national team.
- The teenage sensation ultimately chose to represent France.
- Kroupi has impressed with his Premier League performances this season.

Portugal's national football team, under the guidance of head coach Roberto Martinez, made a significant push to recruit teenage sensation Eli Junior Kroupi. The approach, made in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup, aimed to secure the promising forward for the Portuguese squad.
However, Kroupi, who has showcased remarkable talent in the Premier League this season, has ultimately decided to remain within the French national team's framework. This choice dashes Portugal's aspirations of integrating the highly-rated 19-year-old into their ranks for future international competitions.