Bayern Munich forward Michael Olise has opened up about why he chose to represent France at the international level, despite being eligible to play for Nigeria, Algeria, or England.
Born in England to a Nigerian father and an Algerian-French mother, the 22 year old revealed that his choice was deeply influenced by his admiration for French football legends Zinedine Zidane and Thierry Henry, who were his childhood idols.
Speaking to L’Équipe, Olise explained:
“I have a lot of different connections with Nigeria, Algeria, France, and England. But choosing France felt natural to me. I grew up watching French football and admired players like Zidane and Henry.”
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He further added that growing up in a multicultural household made the decision feel organic rather than forced:
“At home, I had three cultures because of my parents, and outside it was England, where I grew up. I didn’t have to force this mix it was just there.”
Olise has already made four appearances for the French national team, making his debut last September in a UEFA Nations League match against Italy. Since joining Bayern Munich, he has been in exceptional form, scoring 13 goals and providing 11 assists in 40 matches across all competitions.
Editorial
Michael Olise’s decision to represent France rather than Nigeria is both understandable and bittersweet for Nigerian football fans. His story reflects the complexity faced by many dual- or multi nationality players who must choose between their heritage and the footballing structures they grew up with.
While some will feel disappointed, it’s important to acknowledge that Olise’s choice was deeply personal. Admiring football icons like Zidane and Henry and growing up with a strong French influence through his mother meant that his heart was already drawn to the blue jersey.
This decision also highlights a wider conversation: Is Nigeria doing enough to attract and retain players of dual nationality? While talent identification has improved, the process of integration, early engagement, and clear pathways to the senior team needs to be consistent if Nigeria hopes to secure future stars with diverse backgrounds.
The football world is increasingly global, and national teams must not only compete on the pitch but also in winning the hearts and commitments of diaspora talents. While Nigeria missed out on Olise, it’s a reminder of the work that still needs to be done.
Did You Know?
- Michael Olise began his youth career at Chelsea’s academy before moving to Reading, where he made his professional breakthrough.
- He was once included in England’s U18 training camps but never played a competitive match for England.
- France’s U21 team approached Olise before his senior call-up, with coach Sylvain Ripoll keen to integrate him into the system.
- His current club, Bayern Munich, signed him in the summer of 2024 for a reported fee of €50 million from Crystal Palace.
- Nigeria has previously missed out on other high-profile dual-national players, including Bukayo Saka England and Tammy Abraham England.
