Zahi Verges Napoles "Éli" Kroupi (born 18 October 1979), also known as Elie Kroupi, is an Ivorian former professional footballer who played as a forward. He played for, among others, Rennes, Lorient, Angers, Nancy and Nîmes in France, Greek club Levadiakos as well as United Arab Emirates sides Al-Wahda and Al Urooba.
Club career Kroupi was born in Kadrokpa, Sassandra, Ivory Coast.
Whilst at Lorient, Kroupi played in the 2002 Coupe de France Final, in which they beat Bastia.
He spent the 2006–07 season on loan at United Arab Emirates side Al-Wahda. In July 2007, it was announced that Kroupi would not return to Nancy, after the club decided to cancel his contract. Then, Kroupi signed with Greek club Levadiakos in 2008. After 8 appearances for Levadiakos, he returned to France. This time, he signed with Nîmes in Ligue 2.Profile & Statistics at Guardian's Stats Centre On 18 March 2010, Al Urooba signed the Ivorian striker from Nîmes.
International career Kroupi debuted for Ivory Coast on 17 June 2001 during the 2–2 draw in the 2002 African Cup of Nations qualification. He also played on 2 August 2005 during the 2–2 friendly draw against DR Congo.
Playing style Kroupi is known for his speed, his ability to shoot accurately with both feet, and his supreme scoring ability. He was also one of the top scorers in Ligue 1 during the 2005–06 season. Élie Kroupi stats
Personal life Kroupi holds Ivorian and French nationalities. His cousin is former New England Revolution player Arsène Oka. His son Eli Junior Kroupi is a professional footballer who also played for Lorient before moving to Premier League side Bournemouth.
Career statistics
International +Appearances and goals by national team and yearNational teamYearAppsGoalsIvory Coast200110200510Total20
Honours Lorient Coupe de France: 2001–02
Nancy Coupe de la Ligue: 2005–06
References