Thierry Henry raves about Michael Olise and explains why the Bayern star needs special freedom on the field. An Olympic anecdote illustrates his determination.
Thierry Henry isn’t one to set limits for Michael Olise on the soccer field. The legendary French striker knows the FC Bayern forward from their time together at the 2024 Olympic Games. On the “Kampo” podcast, Henry made it clear just how extraordinary he considers his compatriot’s abilities to be.
“Michael is special because he thinks differently. With geniuses, at some point you should stop trying to understand them. Is he a genius? Oh, you bet! (…) Would you tell a painter how to paint? Why would you want to hold back a genius?” Henry gushed.
For the former world-class striker, Olise’s quality lies in his unconventional view of the game. Where others rely on familiar routines, the Bayern pro finds his own solutions. Henry’s comparison to an artist is also a plea to give him that creative freedom.
Henry had already highlighted Olise’s qualities with and without the ball. In addition to his technical skills, he was particularly impressed by Olise’s willingness to win the ball back and work for the team. His enthusiasm is by no means limited to spectacular individual plays.
Henry reveals Olise’s clear message ahead of the Olympics
Henry witnessed just how determined Olise is to pursue his goals ahead of the Olympic tournament in Paris. At the time, he was coaching the French national team and could count on a player who was absolutely determined to be there.
“Michael called me every day to talk about playing in the Olympics, even though the English national team needed him for the European Championship. I didn’t have to convince anyone. Michael Olise has been a huge fan of the French national team since he was a child,” Henry said.
Even a club transfer wouldn’t change Olise’s plans. Henry described his attitude at the time: “He told me, ‘Wherever I go, I’ll tell my club that I’m going to the Olympics—that’s all.’”
In the summer of 2024, Olise finally transferred from Crystal Palace to FC Bayern and subsequently competed with France at the Olympic Games. Under Henry, he reached the final, where the hosts lost to Spain 3–5 in extra time.
For Olise, however, it was still a successful tournament, culminating in a silver medal. Max Eberl also praised the Bayern newcomer’s strong performances at the time.