Having scored against Arsenal (1-2) on Saturday, Éli Junior Kroupi has already carved out a special place for himself in the recent history of the Premier League. At 19, the French striker is not far off becoming the most prolific rookie in a single season of the English top flight in its modern era.
Having arrived in England with the label of a great prospect, Éli Junior Kroupi is now surpassing that simple status. The goal scored at Arsenal (1-2) on Saturday confirmed a steady rise in form since the autumn, to the point of changing his role in Bournemouth’s attacking play.
Already in a rare category
With 10 Premier League goals at the age of 19, the Frenchman has become the first player under 20 to reach this tally on his debut in the top flight since Robbie Keane, who scored 12 goals for Coventry City in 1999-2000. A feat that immediately places him in a very select group alongside Robbie Fowler (12 goals in 1993–94), Anthony Martial (11 in 2015–16), as well as Mason Greenwood, Dele Alli and Jermain Defoe (10 each). Players who, almost without exception, established themselves at the highest level at a very early age.
This symbolic milestone was not achieved against just any opposition. Last season’s top scorer in Ligue 2 with Lorient found the net twice against Arsenal, twice against Manchester United and Crystal Palace, as well as against Tottenham, Leeds, Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton. A tally spread across a variety of opponents, with several clinical finishes against top-flight sides, which underscores the significance of his season.
A progression that changes his status
Over the weeks, the Espoirs’ new attacking face has gone from being an attacking option to a genuine linchpin in the Cherries’ play, without, however, securing an immediate starting place. Used in a variety of roles, the striker, who came through the ranks at Les Merlus, has gained ground thanks to his ability to make an impact in different situations, whilst maintaining consistent effectiveness in key areas. Since Antoine Semenyo’s departure to Manchester City, he has been his club’s top scorer.
At this stage, it is no longer just a question of potential. With 10 goals, a growing influence and solid performances in closely watched matches such as the one at the Emirates Stadium, Kroupi is already proving that his first season has far exceeded the usual standards for a player of his age, having been signed for just €13 million. Keane and Fowler’s record of 12 goals remains within reach by the end of the season, although it will require a particularly strong finish to the campaign with six matches remaining.
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