Éli Kroupi

"Éli" Zahi Verges Napoles Kroupi (born 18 October 1979) is an Ivorian former footballer who played as a forward. He played for, among others, Rennes, Valence, Lorient, Angers and Al-Wahda FC.

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 SC Bastia.

He spent the 2006–07 season on loan at United Arab Emirates side Al-Wahda FC. In July 2007, it was announced that Kroupi would not return to AS Nancy, after the club decided to cancel his contract. Then, Kroupi signed with Greek club Levadiakos F.C. in 2008. After 8 appearances for Levadiakos, he returned to France. This time, he signed with Nîmes Olympique in Ligue 2. On 18 March 2010, Al Urooba signed the Ivorian striker from Nîmes.

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.

Personal life
Kroupi holds Ivorian and French nationalities. His cousin is Cleveland City Stars player Arsène Oka. His son Eli Junior Kroupi is also a professional footballer.

Honours
Lorient
 * Coupe de France: 2001–02

Nancy
 * Coupe de la Ligue: 2005–06