French talent Kroupi 'ready to suffer' to realise Premier League dream
Bournemouth youngster Eli Junior Kroupi might have overcome his tough initial Premier League experience, but the 19 year old informed AFP that he understands the need to "work hard" to succeed in England.
The player from Brittany, who supported Liverpool as a child, featured for Bournemouth on his debut during the opening match at Anfield against the title holders in August.
"I felt like a child in a dream," Kroupi remarked. "It was truly amazing for me and my family."
He appeared for only one minute as a replacement. Following that, with manager Andoni Iraola limiting the young player to a mere 11 minutes across the subsequent four league fixtures, Kroupi admitted he "even considered departing".
A discussion with his father, former Ivory Coast international Eli Kroupi, persuaded the youth to persevere towards his ambition.
"Fleeing from difficulties was not the proper approach," he explained. "My father motivated me to remain and effort twice as much."
In less than a month, the striker had netted four times in three encounters versus Leeds, FA Cup champions Crystal Palace, and Nottingham Forest.
"I succeeded in changing my fortunes," he noted.
Overcome with emotion
His initial goal, a 93rd minute leveller in a 2-2 stalemate at Elland Road, highlighted the French under 21 international's ability to influence crucial situations.
"As soon as the ball entered the net, I could not compose myself," he described. "It levelled the score, I removed my shirt, emotions overwhelmed me, and honestly, I will always remember it."
Two weeks on, starting against Oliver Glasners impressive Eagles, Kroupi struck twice early to put Bournemouth 2-0 ahead at Selhurst Park, until the opponents rallied for a 3-3 tie.
The fixture coincided with his fathers birthday.
"He said he required nothing more, that it was the greatest present possible," the son shared.
After adding the second in a 2-0 victory against Forest late in October, Kroupis scoring run has halted.
Bournemouth occupy 11th position in the Premier League and have not won since his final goal.
The young talent recognises that advancement in the Premier League seldom follows a straight path.
"This is precisely why I joined: for growth, the test, competing alongside the worlds top talents. I prepared myself to endure," Kroupi stated.
Currently, he appreciates the chance to progress under Bournemouths esteemed young coach, Iraola.
"He appears reserved, yet he is truly supportive, which astonished me," Kroupi commented.
Football is my life
Prior to venturing across the Channel for a Premier League opportunity, Kroupi represented his local side Lorient in Frances top and second tiers.
He joined Bournemouth in February this year and returned on loan to Lorient while gearing up for what lay ahead, caught between "the sorrow of departing my hometown and team, and the thrill of exploring fresh horizons."
During his last campaign with Lorient in Ligue 2, he scored 22 times in 30 outings.
"He possesses determination, clarity on his direction, and unwavering self belief," France Under 21 manager Gerald Baticle shared with AFP.
The forward has made a strong impression with the French U21 squad, finding the net three times in five appearances.
Baticle commended Kroupis "instinct for chances and clinical finishing", along with his demeanour.
He described him as a "joyful, vibrant lad who gets along splendidly with the coaching team and colleagues", the manager continued.
"Football defines my existence. Without it, I am unsure of my current position," Kroupi reflected.
"I embrace my profession completely, aware that it could conclude unexpectedly."
Although Kroupi confesses to embracing life moment by moment, he affirmed: "I harbour aspirations and objectives.
"However, right now, my focus lies solely on delivering and aiding my squad, nothing else."