Since joining Bayern Munich, Michael Olise, has barely put a foot wrong. The French winger scored 20 goals and assisted 23 more across 55 appearances on his way to becoming Bayern Munich’s player of the 2024/25 season. Not too shabby for a debut campaign.
Olise has managed to garner praise all around the world for his attacking exploits, however, former teammate, Thomas Müller, believes Olise could become one of Bayern’s most important leaders on the pitch in the future.
This is exactly what the Vancouver
Whitecaps man had to say about Olise’s capacity for, as well as style of leadership (as captured by @iMiaSanMia).
“I have a hot take regarding that: Michael Olise. Based on the way he conducts himself and his willingness to perform, I see him as an absolute key player for the coming years. He can become the player who leads the way for Bayern in the future, as Franck Ribéry did in my time. He may be a different character than Franck, but he’s also the kind of guy who clearly says: ‘Give me the ball, I’ll take care of the rest!‘ – That’s how you can lead a team without being a loudmouth.”
Müller makes a great point and an important case for what it means to be a leader. A leader doesn’t always need to be the player shouting at the top of their lungs, barking instructions to teammates. Leader’s can also be more reserved and quiet, rather leading by example.
Olise is certainly isn’t the most animated player on Bayern’s roster, but don’t underestimate his leadership abilities. After all, 43 goal contributions across 55 appearances is a stellar example of what it means to lead by example.