Michael Olise, the talented Bayern Munich player, has officially made his competitive debut for France, ending any speculation about his international future. By starting for France in their UEFA Nations League match against Italy at the Parc des Princes in Paris, Olise is now cap tied to the French national team, meaning he can no longer represent Nigeria, England, or Algeria.
Born in London to a Nigerian father and an Algerian mother, Olise had several national teams vying for his commitment. The Nigeria Football Federation attempted to recruit him by listing him for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, but Olise declined. After representing France at youth levels, Olise has now made his senior debut, playing 58 minutes before being substituted by Ousmane Dembélé.
Despite missing a chance to score against Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma, Olise’s performance was promising. His decision to play for France brings an end to Nigeria’s efforts to secure his services, although the Super Eagles have successfully recruited other players with similar backgrounds, such as Semi Ajayi, Ola Aina, Joe Aribo, and Ademola Lookman.
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Editorial
Michael Olise’s decision to represent France on the international stage marks the end of Nigeria’s hopes of adding another exciting talent to the Super Eagles roster. While it is understandable that players must make personal decisions about their international careers, this is undoubtedly a missed opportunity for Nigerian football. Olise’s versatility and creativity would have added significant depth to Nigeria’s squad.
However, the Super Eagles’ successful recruitment of players like Semi Ajayi, Ola Aina, and Ademola Lookman shows that there is still great potential for Nigeria to tap into its diaspora talent. As the nation continues to pursue young players with dual eligibility, it will be important to maintain strong relationships with these talents early in their development to avoid missing out on future stars.
France has gained a dynamic player in Olise, and it will be exciting to see how he develops within their national setup. For Nigeria, the focus must now shift to identifying and nurturing the next generation of homegrown and diaspora talent.
Did You Know?
- Michael Olise was born in London and is eligible to represent four countries: France, Nigeria, England, and Algeria.
- Olise’s cap tying debut for France occurred in a UEFA Nations League match against Italy.
- The Nigerian Football Federation has successfully recruited other London born players like Joe Aribo and Ademola Lookman for the Super Eagles.
- Olise played for Chelsea and Reading at youth levels before making his professional breakthrough.
- France is known for having one of the most diverse national teams in international football, with many players of African descent.
