Michael Olise has been at the heart of the summer's biggest transfer saga, with Real Madrid continuously rumoured to be interested in the French winger.
A Summer-long Saga
During Real Madrid's June Presidential elections, incumbent and eventual winner Florentino Pérez promised the club's members that he would sign a "world-class player" for "150 million euros". This immediately brought speculation surrounding Michael Olise, with many outlets and reporters suggesting he was the mystery signing promised by the long-time President.
This speculation saw a strong backlash from the Bayern Munich community, so strong that, in fear of the two clubs' relationship being irreparably damaged, Real Madrid released an official statement denying having had any contact with Michael Olise. Critically, however, they did not deny having an interest in signing the player.
Why Madrid Want Olise: The Best Player In The World?
Michael Olise had an unbelievable campaign at Bayern Munich last term. In 32 games played, the prodigious Frenchman scored 15 goals and secured a record-equalling 21 assists in a single Bundesliga season. Unbelievably, Olise went on to get seven more assists at the World Cup - breaking Pele's long-standing World Cup record.
It's not just the best-in-class stats that paint Olise as one of, if not the, best players in the world - it's the eye test. He is simply a joy to watch, as elegant on the ball as he is efficient. Detractors, particularly those keeping a close eye on him during the World Cup, might suggest that he can be wasteful in front of goal. Even if that was true (with his 15 Bundesliga goals suggesting it is not), his record-setting assist numbers show that he is the ultimate foil. It's certain that Harry Kane, who scored 73 goals for club and country last season, would agree.
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Whilst the Olise transfer saga had seemed to have simmered down as of late, reports began to surface that Olise himself wanted a move to the Spanish capital. However, the latest breaking news will be music to any Bayern Munich fan's ears.
Mario Cortegana (The Athletic) has reported that, not only has Madrid's stance not changed since their official statement in June, but that decision-makers at the 15-times European Champions have now deemed the transfer entirely unfeasible.
A Boost for Bayern
This news can only be described as a boost for Bayern. Even if they were never going to entertain a transfer, Madrid not wanting to pursue one should put to bed this transfer saga for good. Olise is a key player for Die Roten, and to lose him would be a heavy blow, especially when it looks as if Bayern are about to have another era-defining front three on their hands.
Author's Verdict: Olise Should Stay at Bayern
Regardless of speculation, Michael Olise would be smart to see his future staying at Bayern. The German giants are on an awesome trajectory under the management of Vincent Kompany. Having regained their superiority at the top of the Bundesliga with back-to-back championships, they are also looking like a force in Europe once again. With the quality running all throughout the club, quality that includes Olise himself, you wouldn't be surprised if Bayern were to soon achieve their dream of a seventh Champions League title.
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