The Player Nobody Was Talking About
Before World Cup 2026, the conversation about France attacking players centred on Mbappe, Griezmann, and Dembele. Michael Olise was the fourth name — talented, but not yet proven at the highest level. After his second-half display against Senegal, that conversation has changed completely. Olise is one of the players of the tournament.
Who Is He?
Born in London to Nigerian and French parents, Olise grew up in England and played for Crystal Palace before joining Bayern Munich in 2024 for 60 million euros. At Bayern, he has been outstanding — his dribbling, his crossing, and his ability to find Mbappe in the exact position he needs have made him one of the most exciting wide players in European football.
What He Did Against Senegal
Olise came on at half-time with France trailing 0-0 — a scoreline that was embarrassing given France squad quality. His impact was immediate. His energy, his directness, and his sensational assist for Mbappe first goal transformed the match. France second half was completely different from the first — and Olise was the reason.
Should He Start?
The evidence says yes. Deschamps caution says probably not. But if France face a high-pressing opponent in the knockout rounds and struggle in the first half again, Olise will come on — and change the game. The question is whether Deschamps trusts him enough to start him and avoid needing a rescue act.
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