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Come Fan with UsFriday, June 19, 2026

Michael Olise announces himself on the World Cup stage this summer

The World Cup debutant should play a pivotal role in France’s conquest for a third-straight final.

France v Iceland - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
France v Iceland - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
PARIS, FRANCE - SEPTEMBER 09: Michael Olise #11 of Team France pose before the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier -Group H match between France and Iceland at Parc des Princes on September 09, 2025 in Paris, France. (Photo by Xavier Laine/Getty Images)
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Peaking at the Right Time

Michael Olise has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting creative talents. At Bayern Munich, Olise is enjoying a breakout 2025-26 season, combining goal-scoring output with elite playmaking numbers. The 24-year-old’s ability to glide past defenders and deliver decisive final balls has made him a central figure in Bayern Munich’s attack.

The Next Step

At club level, Olise thrives with freedom—cutting inside, dictating tempo and consistently creating chances.

For the France national football team, his role is more competitive. Surrounded by world-class attacking depth, he is often deployed as an impact player rather than a guaranteed starter, but his ability to change matches quickly makes him invaluable. Can Olise make his mark to show the same consistency and production for France that he has for Bayern Munich?

For anyone who has watched him this season with Bayern Munich, the answer would be a resounding, “Yes!”

Olise is one of the players who is most likely to gain a new legion of fans. While the Bundesliga might be considered that weird league in Germany for some, the stage of the World Cup could be one that propels Olise to superstardom.

The Newbie on the International Stage

Olise is expected to make his World Cup debut at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding intrigue as one of the tournament’s potential breakout stars. Based on what he has done this season for Bayern Munich, many are expecting the Frenchman to be one of the tournament’s breakout stars.

As it stands, France’s schedule could bode for Olise, who will be a mismatch for both Senegal and Iraq.

France at the World Cup

Olise’s storyline for the World Cup centers on opportunity. Even in limited minutes, his creativity and unpredictability could make him one of France’s most decisive weapons.

  • France vs Senegal — June 17 — 3 p.m. ET from East Rutherford, NJ (MetLife Stadium)
  • France vs Iraq — June 23 — 5 p.m. ET from Philadelphia (Lincoln Financial Field)
  • France vs Norway — June 27 — 3 p.m. ET from Foxborough, MA (Gillette Stadium)

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