Few young players in Europe have had as many international options as Michael Olise. Born in London to a Nigerian father and a mother of French and Algerian heritage, he could have played for England, Nigeria, France or Algeria. His skill on the ball, his left foot and his eye for a pass made him one of the most sought-after attacking players of his generation. After starring for Reading and Crystal Palace, he moved to Bayern Munich in 2024, and he chose to represent France on the international stage.
Early life and Crystal Palace
Michael Olise was born on 12 December 2001 in Hammersmith, London. His father is Nigerian, and his mother is of French and Algerian descent. He grew up in London and played in academies at Chelsea and Manchester City before joining Reading. Olise broke into Reading’s first team in the Championship, the second tier of English football. In the 2020-21 season he was named the Championship’s Young Player of the Season.
In 2021 he joined Crystal Palace in the Premier League. He quickly became known for his dribbling, creativity and set pieces, and he became one of the club’s most important players.
Bayern and the international choice
Usually deployed on the right wing, Olise cuts inside onto his favoured left foot. He is known for his close control, vision and calmness in possession. In the summer of 2024 he joined Bayern Munich, one of Europe’s biggest clubs, in a major transfer. The move marked his arrival at the top level of European football.
Olise was eligible for several national teams. Nigeria hoped to persuade him, but he chose France. He played for France at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where the team won the silver medal. He went on to make his debut for France’s senior team, joining a squad full of attacking talent.
Nigerian reaction and what comes next
His decision was a disappointment for many Nigerian fans, who had hoped he would join the Super Eagles, as other London-born players such as Ola Aina and Calvin Bassey had done. Like many young players, he has dealt with injuries that interrupted spells of his career. At Bayern, Olise has the chance to compete for major trophies and establish himself as one of Europe’s leading wingers.
Michael Olise could have worn four different national shirts. Nigerian fans still follow his career closely, even though the one he chose is blue.
