Michael Olise is currently making headlines at FC Bayern for more than just his performance on the field. Following his outstanding performance in the 5-0 win over Bodø/Glimt, it was the Frenchman’s post-game interview—of all things—that took center stage. While the 24-year-old shone on the field with two goals and an assist, he once again came across as extremely taciturn during his interview with DAZN.
Olise answered several questions with just a few words. His demeanor was subsequently met with some criticism. The accusation: A star of his stature at FC Bayern should present himself more professionally off the field as well.
Sporting Director Max Eberl isn’t too concerned with this discussion. The 52-year-old is familiar with his star player’s reserved nature and sees no reason to make a big deal out of his aversion to public appearances. “Michael Olise is someone who wants to play soccer, and the off-field stuff isn’t really his thing,” Eberl explained at the press conference ahead of the Bundesliga match against Elversberg, clearly standing up for his player.
“He’s celebrated just as much on other platforms.”
The fact that Olise’s appearances in front of the camera are quite polarizing is nothing new to Eberl. The Bayern boss points out, however, that the reactions are by no means exclusively negative.
„It’s a huge media story, but on other platforms, he’s celebrated just as much for his behavior,“ emphasized the sporting director.
In fact, his demonstrative composure has long been part of Olise’s public image. While other pros speak at length about their performances, the Frenchman often limits himself to the bare essentials. Especially on social media, his taciturn nature is celebrated by many fans.
The discussion following the Bodø game had nevertheless taken on a new dimension. Olise had been named Man of the Match after his stellar performance, but subsequently made it difficult for his interviewer to have a lengthy conversation about his performance.
For Eberl, this is clearly no reason to demand a different demeanor from the Frenchman.
Eberl is primarily interested in Olise’s performance
For Bayern’s sporting director, what matters most is what Olise shows on the field. And there, there are currently hardly any arguments against the offensive star. “The key reason we have Michael with us is how he plays soccer—and he does so exceptionally well,” Eberl clarified.
Olise once again proved exactly that in impressive fashion against Bodø/Glimt. With two goals and an assist, he was the standout player in Munich’s decisive Champions League victory.
Since his move to Munich, Olise has developed into one of the most important players under Vincent Kompany. His performances have even placed him among the contenders for the Ballon d’Or.
Against this backdrop, it’s clear to Eberl what Bayern’s priorities are. Olise wasn’t signed to make headlines in front of the cameras. He’s supposed to make a difference on the field.
As long as he continues to do so as consistently as he is now, the interviews can apparently remain a bit shorter from the sports director’s perspective.