Bayern's new man is France's new football hero
Michael Olise is running for France at the Olympics: The new signing of FC Bayern Munich shoots the tricolor team into the final - and maybe even further. His coach, a true football legend, raves about the 53-million-man.
He had, joked France's coach Thierry Henry before the Olympic football tournament, "last received so many baskets in school". From Kylian Mbappe to Antoine Griezmann or Mathys Tel - there were plenty of rejections for the former world-class striker. At least: Michael Olise, the 53-million purchase of FC Bayern, was allowed to travel - and has so far enchanted the Grande Nation.
Before the final on Friday (6 pm) against Spain, Olise is the celebrated hero of the tricolor team, with the hopes of the French gold mission resting on the new Munich resident. "Michael has made the difference again. He does pretty extraordinary things with his foot," Henry had raved after the 3-1 win in extra time in the semi-final against Egypt.
"He can pass, he can score"
Olise, the coach added, looking at the two tournament goals and four assists so far, is "a very important player for us. He can pass, he can score, he has a very good understanding of space. He knows how to press."
In Munich, they will pat each other on the back for such praise for the 22-year-old. Sporting director Max Eberl and sporting director Christoph Freund had done everything to bring their "dream player" from English Premier League club Crystal Palace to the German record champions.
Winger Olise, emphasized Eberl, is "a difference maker. We want new impulses in our team, new energy, new ideas - players like Michael Olise stand for that. For players like him, the fans come to the stadium." The Bayern equipped their new jewel, which was coveted by many other top clubs and, according to Eberl, "quick, tricky, goal-scoring and very versatile in attack", with a five-year contract until 2029.
"We're happy when he's with us"
The Bayern stars have long had their new colleague, who scored ten goals and six assists in 19 games for Crystal Palace last season, in their sights. "He has a lot of quality and is doing really well at the Olympics. We're all happy when he's with us," said Jamal Musiala in the AZ and the Munich Merkur/tz.
Olise is expected in Munich immediately after the tournament. He doesn't want a longer break to get used to Bayern as quickly as possible. The record champion is "a great challenge, and that's exactly what I was looking for. I want to win as many titles as possible in the coming years." But first, he wants to win the Olympic title.
In the context of Bayern Munich's plans, sporting director Max Eberl mentioned that Olise, their new signing from Crystal Palace, is "a very important player for us in the Football league," showcasing his versatility and ability to bring new energy to the team. Following the Olympics, Olise is anticipated to join Bayern's Football league squad and contribute to their challenges, as he expressed his desire to win numerous titles with the club.
