Former Nigeria international Sunday Oliseh has expressed strong disappointment over Michael Olise’s decision to represent France at international level, insisting the talented winger should have played for Nigeria instead.
Oliseh shared his opinion on his Global Football Insights Podcast ahead of Bayern Munich’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash with Real Madrid, praising Olise’s ability while questioning his international allegiance.
The former Super Eagles coach described the ex-Crystal Palace winger as a special talent capable of reaching the highest level in world football.
“When I see the way Olise plays, I love it,” Oliseh said. “But it gets me angry that I am saying Olise should not be wearing the French national team jersey; he should be wearing the green-white-green jersey of Nigeria.”
“He is so good and might one day contend for the Ballon d’Or. Defenders are feeling helpless against him, and now they foul him, insult him to provoke him, and he is a quiet person.”
Olise, who was born in England to a Nigerian father and a French-Algerian mother, remains eligible for multiple national teams but chose to represent France at senior level.
The 24-year-old has continued to rise in European football, with his performances for Bayern Munich attracting widespread praise and strengthening his reputation as one of the most exciting attacking players in the game.
Oliseh’s comments add to ongoing debates about diaspora players and national team choices, particularly in cases where multiple countries compete for emerging talents with African heritage.
Despite his international decision, Olise remains one of the most closely followed young stars in world football, with expectations high for both club and country in the coming years.
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