The 2026 FIFA World Cup is fast approaching, and with it, the anticipation for France's performance is palpable. Among the talented squad, one player who has caught the eye is Michael Olise. In this article, I, Gael Clichy, will delve into why Olise has the potential to be one of France's standout performers and what makes him a player to watch.
Olise, currently playing for Bayern Munich and a regular in the Champions League, has already made a name for himself in the football world. However, this will be his first World Cup, and he has only played 16 games for France, making him a relatively new face on the international stage. Before the 2024 Olympics in Paris, many French fans were still unfamiliar with him, as he had just moved to Germany from Crystal Palace. Despite this, I had the opportunity to work with Olise during the Olympics, where he showcased his talent and contributed to the team's success, reaching the final and almost winning gold.
Olise's journey to becoming a complete player is an intriguing one. When I worked with him, he was still developing his work without possession and could be frustrating at times. Every player matures differently, and their journey is influenced by their coach's utilization. I understand that when a player consistently wins points for the team, their shortcomings may be overlooked. This is especially true for players like Rayan, who has been the best player in every team he's played for since he was six. Rayan's natural talent allowed him to get away with certain behaviors, but as he progressed, he needed to master all five phases of the game, including defensive transition and set-pieces.
The challenge for young players like Olise is to adapt to the demands of the game. They must learn to work without the ball and get in shape to defend effectively. This was a task that Pep Guardiola faced when he took Rayan to Manchester City last year. Guardiola's influence on Rayan's development cannot be overstated. Working with him can either make or break a player, depending on their willingness to listen and adapt to his strategies. Rayan's exposure to the highest level of football since he was 16 has been instrumental in his growth.
The key to a player's success is their ability to understand and execute their coach's vision. Guardiola's departure from City may impact Rayan's performance, but his potential remains limitless. I believe Olise has the talent to reach new heights, and his ability to improve and adapt will be crucial to his success. Samir Nasri, a player with a similar journey, is an example of what Olise can achieve. Nasri's positive attitude and impact on and off the pitch have made him a valuable asset to the team.
In conclusion, Michael Olise has the potential to be a standout performer for France in the 2026 World Cup. His talent, combined with his willingness to learn and adapt, makes him a player to watch. As a pundit for BBC Sport, I am excited to see him showcase his skills and contribute to France's success on the biggest stage.
