In the autumn light of Munich, Michael Olise has become one of Europe’s most watched wide players again, combining Bayern’s domestic momentum with a growing importance for France. His latest international display, capped by the winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Belgium, drew an emphatic response from France coach Zinedine Zidane: “Michael Olise? I adore him.”
From World Cup setback to renewed influence
- On 14 July, Olise endured a difficult World Cup semi-final against Spain, when France lost 2-0 to the eventual champions. Spain’s defensive plan, put together by Luis de la Fuente, kept the Bayern winger quiet, and he became a focus of criticism from French supporters and media after the elimination.
- Even with that disappointing evening, Olise completed the tournament with seven assists, setting a new World Cup record and moving beyond Pelé’s previous mark.
- He then returned to club football with Bayern and has continued to produce decisive numbers. Across all competitions this season, he has eight goals and four assists.
- His 2025-26 return stands at 22 goals and 31 assists, underlining why he has become such a prominent figure at both club and international level.
- Against Turkey, Olise supplied Kylian Mbappé for France’s goal. Mbappé was injured as he scored, leaving the captain and Real Madrid forward unable to finish the match unscathed.
- Against Belgium, Olise’s spectacular strike settled a 1-0 France win and prompted Zidane’s warm public praise.
Bayern hold firm amid Madrid interest
Olise was one of Real Madrid’s major targets during the summer window, with club president Florentino Pérez particularly keen to bring him to the Spanish capital. There was talk that the player had told France team-mates, including Mbappé, during the World Cup that he wanted to join Madrid.
Bayern, however, refused to entertain a departure. The German champions took a firm position on keeping the France international, and Olise remained in Bavaria rather than moving to the Bernabéu.
A France choice after an English upbringing
Born in England, Olise had several international routes open to him. His family background made him eligible for England, Nigeria, Algeria and France, but he chose the French national team.
His path to the summit has not been entirely straightforward. Before emerging at Crystal Palace and earning his move to Bayern, he had been released by the youth systems of Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal. Now, with Bayern unwilling to sell and France building around his creativity, Olise’s place in the continental game looks more secure than ever.
