Zidane Calls Up Bournemouth Player After Marcus Thuram Injury
Zinedine Zidane has made a last-minute change to the France national team squad following Marcus Thuram's injury. The manager has called up Éli Junior Kroupi, a Bournemouth forward, for the upcoming Nations League matches against Italy and Turkey.
The France national team will have a new addition for its upcoming international fixtures after Zinedine Zidane decided to call up young striker Éli Junior Kroupi, who plays for Bournemouth in the Premier League.
The 21-year-old forward has received his first senior international call-up, marking an important opportunity to begin his international career under the legendary former player.
The decision came after confirmation that Marcus Thuram would be unavailable for the upcoming Nations League matches due to a muscle injury.
With this change, Kroupi will have the opportunity to join the squad and compete for playing time in the matches against Italy and Turkey.
Marcus Thuram's Injury Forces France to Adjust Its Squad
The Inter Milan forward experienced discomfort in his hamstring muscles following his appearance against Como, prompting the French coaching staff to rule him out.
Marcus Thuram, 29, has made 35 senior international appearances and scored three goals for France.
Although he had not initially been included in Zidane's first squad, injuries in the attacking department gave him another opportunity to prove himself.
However, his physical problems ultimately prevented him from participating during this international break.
His absence represents another setback for the manager, who must reorganize his attacking options ahead of two important fixtures.
France Also Calls Up Saël Kumbedi Following Another Injury
Éli Junior Kroupi's arrival is not the only change made by Zinedine Zidane during this international camp.
The manager had previously called up defender Saël Kumbedi, who plays for Wolfsburg, to replace Pierre Kalulu, who was also ruled out through injury.
As a result, the French coaching staff continues to adjust its squad to maintain alternatives across different positions.
When Will France Play Against Italy and Turkey?
The France national team will first face Italy on Wednesday in Milan before taking on Turkey on Sunday in Bordeaux.
These matches will give Zidane an opportunity to assess his new call-ups and evaluate Kroupi's performances during his first experience with the senior national team.
Key Takeaways
- Zinedine Zidane called up Éli Junior Kroupi following Marcus Thuram's injury.
- The Bournemouth forward has received his first senior international call-up.
- Thuram was ruled out due to hamstring discomfort.
- Saël Kumbedi replaced the injured Pierre Kalulu.
- France will face Italy and Turkey in the Nations League.
