Michael Akpovie Olise: The Rising Star of Bayern Munich
Michael Akpovie Olise, a young footballing talent, has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising players. Playing as an attacking midfielder and winger for Bayern Munich, one of the world’s most prestigious clubs, Olise combines technical skill, vision, and versatility. Born in England but representing the French national team, his journey is marked by determination, talent, and a multicultural background that makes him unique. This article explores Olise’s life, career, and playing style, highlighting how he became a key figure at Bayern and a name to watch in global football.
Early Life: Multicultural Roots
Origins and Childhood in London
Michael Akpovie Olise was born on December 12, 2001, in Hammersmith, London, England. The son of a Nigerian father and a French-Algerian mother, Olise grew up in a culturally diverse environment. Raised in Hayes, Greater London, he was shaped by a blend of traditions and perspectives, influencing his identity both on and off the pitch. His passion for football began as a child, playing on local streets and pitches, where his ball skills already stood out.
First Steps in Football
At age six, Olise joined Hayes and Yeading United, a local club where he began honing his abilities. His natural talent soon attracted attention from larger clubs’ academies. He spent time in the youth setups of Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City, showing early promise that set him apart from his peers. His seven-year stint at Chelsea, starting as an under-9, was particularly formative, though he left the club at 14 to seek new opportunities.
Club Career: From Reading to Bayern
Professional Debut with Reading
Olise’s professional career began at Reading FC, a club in England’s second-tier Championship. In July 2018, he joined the club’s academy scholarship program, a crucial step in his development. He made his senior debut on March 12, 2019, in a 3-0 loss to Leeds United. Despite the result, Olise’s appearance marked the start of his rise. On July 15, 2019, he signed his first professional contract, a three-year deal.
In the 2020-2021 season, Olise shone at Reading, scoring seven goals and providing ten assists in 44 league matches. His first goal for the club came on September 19, 2020, with a stunning volley in a 2-0 win against Barnsley. His ability to create chances and finish with precision made him a central figure in Reading’s midfield, attracting attention from Premier League clubs. In April 2021, he was named the EFL Young Player of the Season, solidifying his reputation as a top prospect.
Stardom at Crystal Palace
In July 2021, Crystal Palace triggered Olise’s £8.37 million release clause, signing him to a five-year contract. He made his Premier League debut on September 11, 2021, in a 3-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur. Over three seasons at Palace, Olise established himself as one of the league’s most exciting young talents. He played 90 matches, scoring 16 goals and providing 25 assists, impressive figures despite recurring injuries.
In the 2023-2024 season, despite a serious Achilles injury sustained with France’s under-21 team, Olise returned strongly under manager Oliver Glasner. He scored ten goals and provided six assists in just 19 matches, including a standout performance with two goals in a 4-0 win over Manchester United in May 2024. His exceptional form earned him a nomination for the 2024 PFA Young Player of the Year and interest from clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United.
Transfer to Bayern Munich
On July 7, 2024, Bayern Munich signed Olise for €60 million, including bonuses, on a five-year contract until June 30, 2029. The move to the German giants marked a new chapter in his career. He debuted on August 16, coming off the bench in a 4-0 DFB-Pokal win against SSV Ulm, where he assisted Kingsley Coman’s goal just two minutes after entering. On September 14, he scored his first Bundesliga goal in a 6-1 rout of Holstein Kiel.
In his debut season at Bayern, Olise excelled, finishing with 12 goals and 15 assists, leading the league in assists. He also shone in the Champions League, scoring a brace in his debut in a 9-2 victory over Dinamo Zagreb. His contributions were pivotal in Bayern securing their 33rd Bundesliga title in 2025, establishing him as one of the squad’s most influential players.
International Career: Choosing France
Representing France at Youth Level
Eligible to play for England, Nigeria, and Algeria due to his heritage, Olise chose France, citing a strong connection to his mother’s homeland. He debuted for France’s under-18 team at the 2019 Toulon Tournament against Qatar. In 2023, he played in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, though an injury limited his participation. His involvement in the 2024 Paris Olympics was a milestone, with France winning a silver medal.
Senior Team Debut
On August 29, 2024, Olise earned his first call-up to France’s senior team under coach Didier Deschamps for UEFA Nations League matches against Italy and Belgium. He debuted on September 6, playing 58 minutes in a 3-1 loss to Italy at the Parc des Princes. On March 23, 2025, he scored his first senior international goal and provided an assist in a 2-0 win over Croatia in the Nations League quarter-finals, helping France advance. To date, Olise has eight caps and two goals for the senior team.
Playing Style: A Versatile Talent
Technical Skills and Vision
Michael Olise is renowned for his agility, exceptional ball control, and ability to change the tempo of a game. A left-footed player, he primarily operates as a right winger or attacking midfielder but is versatile enough to play as a No. 10 or in other midfield roles. His ability to dribble in tight spaces and accelerate with the ball draws comparisons to Neymar, whom Olise cites as a childhood inspiration. In an interview with Bayern’s 51 magazine, he said, “I loved Neymar’s skillful style. But you learn from many players to become complete.”
On-Field Impact
Olise combines vision with precise passing, often breaking down defenses with through balls or quick changes of direction. His 15 assists in his debut Bundesliga season highlight his chance-creation ability. He also possesses a powerful and accurate shot, evident in his long-range goals and placed finishes. While early in his career, coaches like Reading’s Mark Bowen noted his reluctance to track back defensively, Olise has since evolved into a more complete player.
Comparisons to Greats
Olise’s playing style has drawn comparisons to legends like Arjen Robben, particularly for his left-footed cuts from the right wing. Former Manchester City player Micah Richards praised him, saying, “If given freedom to express himself, he’ll be a superstar. His decision-making and first touch are sublime.” His game-changing ability positions him as one of his generation’s most promising talents.
Personal Life: Family and Inspirations
Family Ties
Olise has a younger brother, Richard Olise, a footballer in Chelsea’s youth ranks who represents England at youth international levels. The Olise family is close-knit, and Michael often credits his parents’ support as crucial to his career. His multicultural heritage—Nigeria, France, Algeria, and England—is a source of pride, and he has expressed interest in exploring his roots further.
Influences and Idols
Beyond Neymar, Olise draws inspiration from Cristiano Ronaldo and Eden Hazard, admiring their dedication and skill. Off the pitch, he leads a private life, focusing on his development as an athlete. His move to Germany was a cultural challenge, but he adapted quickly, learning basic German and integrating into Bayern’s environment.
Conclusion: A Bright Future
Michael Akpovie Olise is more than a talented footballer; he is a symbol of how hard work, natural ability, and a focused mindset can lead to success at the elite level. At 23, he has already won the Bundesliga, shone in the Champions League, and established himself in the French national team. His journey from English academies to the pinnacle of German football is inspiring, particularly for young players in Brazil, where football is a universal passion. With his skill, versatility, and mentality, Olise is destined to become a global star, and Bayern Munich is just the beginning of his meteoric rise.
