‘I’m not going to deny myself the chance to play in the Premier League’ – Eli Junior Kroupi confirms Bournemouth desire despite Lorient’s efforts to keep him | OneFootball

Lorient attacker Eli Junior Kroupi (18) has confirmed his intention to return to Bournemouth this summer, despite Lorient’s hopes of keeping the teenage forward for their return to Ligue 1. The 18-year-old France youth international spent the season on loan at the Breton club from the Cherries, with both clubs owned by American businessman Bill Foley.

Kroupi Jr, a Lorient academy product, impressed throughout the 2024-2025 Ligue 2 campaign, registering 22 goals and 2 assists in 30 appearances. His performances were recognised at the UNFP awards on Sunday, where he was named Ligue 2 Player of the Season.

Speaking after receiving the award, Kroupi admitted the decision to leave Lorient had not been easy. “I had a little pang in my heart when I left my boyhood club,” he said. “Ligue 1 is a very big league with very good players, and leaving this league hurts a bit – but I’m not going to deny myself the chance to play in the Premier League.”

Lorient were relegated from Ligue 1 last season but secured an immediate return by finishing second in Ligue 2 under Régis Le Bris. The club had reportedly hoped to negotiate another loan or permanent deal for Kroupi, but the player appears determined to test himself at the top level in England.

Kroupi made his senior debut for Lorient in 2022 before signing for Bournemouth in January 2024. He has yet to feature in the Premier League, but his successful stint back in France has significantly raised his profile heading into the new campaign.GFFN | George Boxall