In the competitive landscape of European football, few young talents have sparked as intense a diplomatic tug-of-war as Michael Olise. The 24-year-old winger has cemented his status as a premier creative force in the Bundesliga with FC Bayern Munich. Known for his languid dribbling style, precise set-piece delivery, and famously deadpan demeanor, Olise has become a fixture in the French national team after years of speculation surrounding his international allegiance.
Whether you are tracking his latest assists in the Champions League or trying to solve the mystery of his muted celebrations, here is the essential guide to the multinational maestro.
Nationality and Heritage: A Multi-Cultural Journey
Olise’s international eligibility is one of the most complex in modern football.
Where was he born? Olise was born in Hammersmith, London, England.
International Allegiance: Despite playing for French youth teams and snubbing approaches from England and Nigeria, Olise officially committed his senior international future to France.
Family Roots:
Father: Nigerian (Akpovie is his middle name).
Mother: French-Algerian.
Can Olise speak French? Yes. Although he grew up in London speaking English, his mother spoke French at home.
While he is famously taciturn in interviews, his French is functional and serves him well within the Les Bleus camp.
Club Career and Recent Status
After bursting onto the scene at Crystal Palace, Olise made the high-profile move to Germany.
Current Team: FC Bayern Munich.
Why did he not celebrate? Olise is famous for his muted celebrations, even after scoring spectacular goals (like his 91st-minute free-kick against Manchester United in 2023).
Former teammates have described him as "laid-back" and "weird," suggesting he prefers to let his play do the talking, mirroring the nonchalant style of American rappers like Lil Uzi Vert, whom he admires. Is Michael related to Sunday Olise? No. Despite sharing a surname and Nigerian heritage, Michael is not related to the former Nigeria and Juventus midfielder Sunday Olise.
Personal Life: Religion and Family
Religion: Olise keeps his personal life very private, and there is no public information regarding his religious beliefs.
Sibling: Football talent runs in the family.
His younger brother, Richard Olise, is a defender who came through the Chelsea academy and has represented England at youth level. Wife/Girlfriend: As of 2026, Olise is not married, and he has successfully kept his dating life out of the public eye.
Fast Facts (Feb 2026)
Age: 24 (Born December 12, 2001).
Position: Winger / Attacking Midfielder.
Key Traits: High technical ability, elite composure, set-piece specialist.