Michael Olise Chooses France Over Nigeria for Football
Michael Olise, born on December 12, 2001, in Hammersmith, London, chose to represent France in international football instead of Nigeria, England, or Algeria. His father, Vincent Olise, is of British-Nigerian heritage, while his mother, Mina, is French-Algerian.
Olise's club career began in England, progressing through the youth academies of Chelsea and Reading before joining Reading's senior squad. He later moved to Crystal Palace and completed a transfer to Bayern Munich in 2024.
Despite his English upbringing, Olise developed a strong connection to France through family ties and regular visits. He communicated primarily in French with his mother, which influenced his decision.
Former Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr confirmed that Nigeria attempted to recruit Olise during 2019 and 2020, placing him on a standby list for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, but he declined. Olise's commitment to France solidified after earning his full international debut under manager Didier Deschamps.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from Legit.ng. Read the original report below.
Read full article
Continue on Legit.ng
Get the week in one email
Top stories, NPFL results, the naira — every Friday morning. Free, one email a week.
Related Stories
Michael Olise Leads France to 4-1 Comeback Against Belgium
Ndidi Questions Olaitan's Choice of Benin Over Nigeria
Former England Youth Player Switches Allegiance to Nigeria
Lincoln City's Elerewe Targeted by Nigeria's Super Eagles
Abdul Abdulmalik Commits to Nigeria's Super Eagles
AC Milan's Zachary Athekame Chooses Switzerland Over Nigeria
Get Plus234Feed on messaging apps
Same headlines, delivered where you already scroll.
