JUNIOR KROUPI, just 19, has emerged as one of the biggest finds in the Premier League this season and could be a surprise inclusion on Portugal’s World Cup roster, according to Robert Martínez. The final squad of 26 players will be announced today at 1 PM at the National Football Stadium, reports A Bola.

The Crossroads of Three National Teams

The Football Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is actively trying to convince Elija Junior Kroupi, a Bournemouth striker of French-Bosnian descent, to play for the country. However, Kroupi, born and raised in France, where he played in younger categories, also has the right to play for Bosnia and Herzegovina through his father and Portuguese citizenship through his mother and grandmother. Given that the French coach, Didier Deschamps, did not include him on the World Cup list, Portugal sees this as a strategic opportunity.

One of Europe's Greatest Talents

Kroupi is not just a rising young talent but a sensation in European football this season. At just 19, he became the first teenager since Robbie Fowler in the 1993-94 season to score 12 goals in a Premier League debut season. His impressive rise from playing in France's second division with Lorient to the Premier League has caught the attention of major European clubs like Barcelona, Manchester City, and Arsenal. Bournemouth has already stated they have no intention of selling him, even for offers close to €100 million.

A Modern Forward Who Plays by Instinct

Kroupi's game isn't just about the numbers; he has an instinctive style that sets him apart in a more mechanized game. He is a hybrid forward, dynamic, intelligent, and difficult to mark between the lines.

The Numbers That Prove His Class

His stats back up his reputation: in the Premier League, he scores a goal every 121 minutes, placing him just behind Erling Haaland. Out of 43 shots, 20 have gone into the goal. Among players under 20 in the main European leagues, only Lamine Yamal has a better attacking record this season.

A Role for Both Present and Future

Portugal has an abundance of talent, experience, and proven stars, but they need renewal, new energy, and fresh competitive dynamics. A player like Junior Kroupi could bring added value, both for the present and future. He has the potential to be one of those players who can change the course of a match and bring an advantage to Portugal, one of the six main contenders for the World Cup alongside Spain, France, Argentina, Brazil, and Germany.