"I think football can be art", Olise said. "But personally, I only see myself as a creative player. I do not see myself as an artist. However, I enjoy beautiful football, for the audience, for those watching on television who want to enjoy the game. Football is a great sport, so it should also be visually appealing".

Michael Olise during France's 3-1 victory over Senegal in their opening Group I match of the World Cup 2026 at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, US on 16/6. Photo: Reuters

The French attacking midfielder also emphasized that beauty in football does not only come from attacking plays. He explained: "A tackle can also be a very smooth and beautiful action. If it flows well, who has the right to say it is not beautiful? I think strikers have the beauty of attack, while defenders have the beauty of defense".

Regarding his defensive capabilities, Olise admitted it is not his natural instinct but has improved over time. "I can do it, and I think I have improved playing at a higher level. It is a part of the game".

In France's opening World Cup 2026 match against Senegal, Olise shone and was voted man of the match, despite not scoring. The player played the full 90 minutes, completed 89% of his passes, created four scoring opportunities, had two shots on target, and completed two dribbles. Olise's through ball split the Senegal defense, allowing Kylian Mbappe to break through and score the opening goal with a diagonal shot.

Olise assisted Mbappe's goal.

Olise attributes his playing inspiration to street football. The player, born in 2001, also revealed his favorite role is the number 10, despite often being deployed on the right wing for both Bayern Munich and the France national team.

"We played in the street when we were young, with my brother, kicking a ball against a wall, playing one-on-one. That is a different form of football, but a very good way to learn. There is complete freedom there", Olise expressed. "The number 10 is also a bit more of a free position. I grew up playing in this role, so it feels most natural. Currently, I often play on the wing, but the number 10 is still the most suitable position for me".

When Mbappe praised him as a player of the present and future, Olise remained humble: "That is a huge compliment, especially coming from Kylian, whom I greatly respect and who has achieved so much. I am a player of the present, and if I continue to work hard, I hope to become a player of the future".

Olise before the match against Senegal. Photo: So Foot

While Olise is considered a rising star in French football on the pitch, off the pitch, he is almost the complete opposite of the glamorous image often seen in modern superstars. Following the victory over Senegal at MetLife Stadium, Olise left the post-match mixed zone almost "hidden", wearing a jacket, hood up, and carrying a small bag—a familiar sight for a player who avoids media attention. This is also his usual style at both Bayern and the France national team: few appearances, few statements, no seeking the spotlight.

However, within the team, he is described quite differently. Coach Didier Deschamps remarked: "Vincent Kompany played a significant role in his development. Michael had an excellent season, showing efficiency and personality. He is currently one of the best players in the world, but the media is not something he cares about. The pitch is what matters—where he wants to live".

This has led to Real Madrid targeting Olise. However, his likelihood of creating a "media buzz" or signaling a transfer is very low, especially during the World Cup 2026 period. If on the field he is a true superstar, off the field he is completely contrary to the brand image of stars like Vinicius or Mbappe—individuals with significant influence both on and off the pitch.

Thierry Henry, who worked with Olise when managing France at the Olympic Paris 2024, also described him as an elusive personality. "Everyone knows he dribbles well. He has his own view on football and life, so sometimes people find it difficult to understand him off the pitch. But he is a very good and pleasant guy", the former Arsenal and Barca legend stated.

Michael Olise (left) challenges for the ball during a Bayern Munich match against Union Berlin at An der Alten Försterei, Berlin, Germany, on 15/3/2025. Photo: AP

The reality in the dressing room is quite different from his quiet demeanor outside. Olise's teammates describe him as friendly and humorous, despite being reserved. A prime example occurred during his first call-up to the France national team in 9/2024, when new players had to sing in front of the entire squad. Instead of singing a traditional French song, Olise unexpectedly rapped the American hip-hop track "Feed the Streets" by Roddy Ricch, causing Mbappe and Eduardo Camavinga to laugh at his audacity.

Unlike many big stars, Olise does not align himself with fashion or sports brands. He actively maintains freedom in his personal image choices, even continuing to use Nike shoes that were released a decade ago.

Born in England, with Nigerian roots from his father and French-Algerian from his mother, Olise holds four nationalities. He came through the youth academies of Arsenal, Chelsea, and Man City before developing at Reading and excelling at Crystal Palace. Although England pursued him, he chose to represent the France national team, where he is steadily establishing his new status among a generation of young talents.

Currently, from the Premier League to Bayern Munich and the France national team, Olise's name is mentioned as one of Europe's brightest talents. And while many major clubs, including Real Madrid, continue to monitor him closely, the player seems to maintain one principle: letting his football speak for itself.

Hong Duy (according to Marca)