‘Very Good Boy’ Michael Olise Named ‘One of the Best in the World’ by Bayern Munich Star Serge Gnabry

A Rising Star Shining in Bavaria

When Michael Olise swapped south London for southern Germany last summer, few could have predicted just how spectacularly he would adapt. The Frenchman had dazzled at Crystal Palace, showing glimpses of artistry that suggested a higher ceiling. But even his most ardent admirers might not have foreseen him exploding into life so quickly at Bayern Munich.

Now, one of the Bavarians’ senior figures – Serge Gnabry – has gone as far as to call Olise “one of the best players in the world.” High praise from a man who knows what it means to play at the elite level, and who has himself stood on Champions League final stages.

What Happened?

Speaking to German newspaper BILD, Gnabry didn’t mince his words. He admitted that Olise’s debut season had even caught him by surprise, both in terms of his mindset and his output on the pitch.

“He has enormous potential and is one of the best players in the world right now. I don’t know where his limit is!” Gnabry said. “Michael can achieve anything. He can play centrally, keep the ball, and is a good one-on-one player. I didn’t know him that well and didn’t expect it to be like this. Maybe it doesn’t seem that way sometimes, given the way he presents himself, but he has a very good mindset. Michael works hard, he’s a very good boy, very determined. That’s why I think he still has a lot of potential.”

For Olise, that level of endorsement reflects the kind of impression he’s made in just a single season in Munich. For Gnabry, it is both admiration and recognition: Bayern might have a generational star in their ranks.

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The Bigger Picture: Bayern’s Gamble That Paid Off

Olise didn’t come cheap. In fact, Bayern triggered his €63 million (£55m/$74m) release clause at Crystal Palace to land him, beating off stiff competition from Chelsea and other Premier League suitors. It was a transfer that raised eyebrows: Palace had nurtured him, Chelsea had thought he’d return to west London, but Bayern swooped decisively.

Fast-forward a year, and that decision looks like a bargain. Olise’s first season saw him register 20 goals and 23 assists across 55 appearances in all competitions. His contribution wasn’t limited to numbers – his flair, vision, and calmness in tight spaces quickly made him a fan favourite.

And while Bayern could “only” celebrate another Bundesliga title – with European honours eluding them – Olise’s ability to adapt so seamlessly to German football was a major talking point across Europe.

Serge Gnabry’s Words Carry Weight

It’s not unusual for teammates to compliment one another. But coming from Serge Gnabry, these words mean something more. Gnabry has played alongside Robert Lewandowski, Thomas Müller, Leroy Sané, Kingsley Coman – some of the best attacking talents in modern football. For him to place Olise in that bracket, and even above in potential, is telling.

Gnabry admitted he hadn’t known Olise well before his arrival, and maybe that reflects how under-the-radar the Frenchman was outside England. But after training with him every day, watching him glide past defenders, and seeing his decision-making up close, Gnabry has become convinced: this is no ordinary winger.

Olise’s Mindset: More Than Just Talent

What stood out to Gnabry was not just Olise’s technical brilliance, but his mentality.

Football is littered with young stars who shone briefly only to fade away because of inconsistency, ego, or poor application. Olise, according to those inside Bayern’s camp, is different. Quiet, focused, and humble, he’s channelled his energy into improving his game.

That is reflected in Gnabry’s description: “a very good boy, very determined.” For a club like Bayern, where discipline and mentality are valued as much as flair, that attitude could be the key to sustaining a long career at the top.

Did You Know?

• Michael Olise was born in London to a Nigerian father and French-Algerian mother, making him eligible for multiple national teams. He eventually chose France and has already been capped at senior level.

• At Crystal Palace, he had already broken records for chance creation, ranking among the Premier League’s top playmakers despite his age.

• His 20 goals and 23 assists last season mean he directly contributed to more than 40% of Bayern’s total goals across competitions.

What Next for Michael Olise and Bayern Munich?

FC Bayern Munchen v Olympique Lyonnais – Pre-Season Friendly

Both Olise and Gnabry are currently away on international duty, representing France and Germany respectively in World Cup qualifiers. But once the break ends, all eyes will return to the Allianz Arena.

On September 13, Bayern face newly-promoted Hamburger SV at home. It will be another opportunity for Olise to weave his magic and continue proving Gnabry right.

For Bayern, the challenge is clear: domestic dominance is expected, but European glory is demanded. If Olise continues his upward trajectory, he might just be the X-factor that propels them back to Champions League success.

The Wider Impact: What Olise Means for the Bundesliga

The Bundesliga has long struggled to retain global stars, with the brightest often leaving for Spain or England. Olise’s arrival – and immediate stardom – bucks that trend. At 22, he is young enough to be a cornerstone for years to come.

If Bayern can keep him, he could be not just their talisman, but also one of the Bundesliga’s international flag-bearers. In a league looking for global appeal after losing names like Lewandowski, Erling Haaland, and Jude Bellingham, Olise’s presence is invaluable.

Conclusion: From Palace Prospect to Bayern Superstar

Michael Olise’s journey is still in its early chapters. From Selhurst Park to the Allianz Arena, from raw talent to polished superstar, his story reflects football’s ability to elevate those who combine flair with focus.

Serge Gnabry’s words echo the sentiment of many who’ve watched Olise over the past year: this is no ordinary player. He’s not just a tricky winger, not just a creative spark – he’s becoming one of the best in the world.

And if his mindset matches his magic on the ball, as Gnabry suggests, then Bayern Munich may have found not just a player for the present, but a legend in the making.