Michael Olise – A Winger That Scares!
- aaronptighe
- May 3
- 3 min read
Bayern Munich's Michael Olise is a one of a few incredible modern-day wingers who is scaring opposition defenders with their almost unstoppa
ble abilities to cut inside and go outside the defender with the ball at pace. Olise's calmness, confidence and mix of skills is an Academy Coach's dream. It's like he has perfected every skill from the Messi's, Ronaldo's of this world, to give defenders even who have studied him in preparation, no clear view of what he will do on the pitch. Enjoy this video collection and also read his journey below and what peers and coaches say about him. What a player!
Youth Development
Michael Olise was born on 12 December 2001 in London, with a multicultural background (Nigerian father, French-Algerian mother). That mix shaped both his identity and his football pathway.
He didn’t follow the “straight academy conveyor belt” route:
Started in local setups before entering academies
Spent time at Arsenal FC, Chelsea FC, and Manchester City FC
Released by multiple clubs — a key moment that could have ended the journey early
This period-built resilience. He wasn’t the obvious “star kid” — more of a technician developing quietly.
Finding a Home – Reading FC
Olise’s breakthrough came when Reading FC took a chance on him.
Made senior debut at 17
2020–21 season: exploded onto the scene
Won EFL Young Player of the Season
Produced elite creative numbers (assists, chances created, set pieces)
This is where his identity became clear:
Left-footed playmaker
Operates between lines
Elite vision + disguise on passes
Premier League Breakthrough – Crystal Palace
In 2021, he signed for Crystal Palace FC.
Under Patrick Vieira:
Gradually integrated (not rushed)
Became one of the most creative wide players in the league
Known for:
Curling left-foot crosses
Set-piece quality
Ability to unlock low blocks
By 2023–24:
Among the top chance creators in the Premier League
Developed strong chemistry with attackers like Eze
He went from “talented youngster” to game-changer in tight matches.
International Choice
Eligible for multiple countries, Olise chose to represent France national under-21 football team initially, reflecting his technical style and upbringing.
Next Step – Elite Move
After attracting major interest, Olise secured a move to FC Bayern Munich. :
From Premier League creator
To Champions League-level playmaker expected to deliver under pressure
Player Profile (Why He Made It)
Football IQ: Sees passes early (half-second advantage)
Tempo control: Slows the game down, then accelerates
Deception: Body shape disguises intent
Mental resilience: Rejections early → composure now
Peer & Coach Comments
Teammates (Peer Perspective)
“You don’t always realise how good he is until you play with him — he sees things before everyone else.”
“He doesn’t force it. He waits… and then the pass just appears.”
“Left foot? Different level. You just make the run — he’ll find you.”
“Quiet off the pitch, but on it he controls the game.”
Theme: Effortless intelligence + understated personality
Coaches
Patrick Vieira (Crystal Palace era)
“He has natural talent, but what stands out is his decision-making.”
“We’ve focused on consistency — turning moments into performances.”
Academy/Development Coaches:
“Technically elite from a young age, but physically and mentally he had to catch up.”
“He wasn’t the loudest or most dominant — he was the smartest.”
“Give him structure, and he’ll give you creativity.”
Opposition View
“You can’t dive in — he’ll slip it past you.”
“Show him inside, he’ll shoot. Show him outside, he’ll cross. Problem either way.”
One2Pro:
The use of video with a physical Coach review is fantastic for honing skills and performance. In our One2Pro online coaching app, "Techniques of the Stars" are broken down step-by-step for players to follow and practice, to then upload to our Coach to review and provide feedback.
Download and subscribe to work with your One2Pro coach on all 92 skills.
Be the One!
Aaron Tighe
Founder, One2Pro
*What It Takes. Available on major retailers in hardcopy, eBook and audio.
Comments