Michael Olise has emerged as one of France’s most promising talents ahead of the 2026 World Cup — the Bayern Munich winger, who joined the club from Crystal Palace in 2023, has impressed with his performances both domestically and internationally. Gael Clichy. A former professional footballer and current BBC pundit, highlighted Olise as one of the players to watch at the World Cup. Clichy, who worked with Olise during the 2024 Olympics with the French under-23 team, believes Olise has the potential to be one of France’s best if he can transfer his club form to the international stage.

Bavarian Brilliance and Hat-trick Heroics

In a recent friendly against Northern Ireland, Olise delivered a standout performance, scoring a hat-trick to help France secure a 3-1 victory; the match, which was a key part of France’s World Cup preparations, saw Olise showcase his creativity and clinical finishing. His first goal came in the 43rd minute after a blocked shot from Ousmane Dembélé fell to him, and he easily slotted it in. He added a second goal in the 49th minute with a powerful shot from 12 meters, and his third goal in the 75th minute came with a stunning 20-meter curler into the top corner. According to SPORT1. DAZN commentator Korbinian Rundel praised Olise for his impact, calling him the “Antreiber” (driver) and the “Unterschiedsspieler” (difference-maker) in the match.

The game was also notable for Olise’s departure from the field in the 82nd minute as Maghnes Akliouche came on to replace him; Meanwhile, his Bayern teammate Dayot Upamecano had a mixed night, failing to prevent a goal from Patrick Kelly in the 64th minute.

Team Dynamics and Transfer Speculation

Olise has also spoken about his relationship with Upamecano, describing him as a close friend both on and off the field. According to the Soester Anzeiger. Olise highlighted the dual personality of Upamecano: a kind and approachable person off the field, but a fierce and aggressive competitor on it. This dynamic has helped both players thrive at Bayern and in the national team — As France prepares for the World Cup, both players are expected to play key roles in the team’s success.

Despite his impressive performances, Olise has been the subject of transfer speculation. Real Madrid has been linked with a potential move for the winger this summer, with Real President Florentino Pérez hinting at a 150 million euro offer for a new signing. However, Bayern Munich has made it clear that they are not interested in selling Olise, as Bayern President Herbert Hainer stated the club will not entertain offers for the player, as reported by FotMob. Olise’s current form has been instrumental in Bayern’s success, including their 2025-26 Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double. He recorded 34 goal involvements (15 goals, 19 assists) in the Bundesliga season, a record for a winger in the German top flight since detailed Opta data collection began in the 2004-05 season.

Olise’s World Cup Ambitions

With the World Cup approaching, Olise’s performances at Bayern and in friendlies have raised expectations for his impact on the international stage. Clichy emphasized that if Olise can bring his “magic” to the tournament, he will be seen as one of France’s best players. Olise is not the only young talent making waves for France, as his Bayern teammate Rayan Cherki is also being touted as a potential star. Cherki, who was also part of the French under-23 squad during the 2024 Olympics, has shown flashes of brilliance with his creativity and technical skill. While he is still developing, Clichy believes he has the potential to make a significant impact if given the opportunity.