Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira discussed Bayern Munich's Michael Olise's choice to represent France rather than England at international level. Their comments highlight his commitment despite England's interest.
Henry on England's recruitment push
In the summer of 2024, Thierry Henry was preparing France's under-23 national team for the Olympic Games in Paris, with Michael Olise in the squad.
Thierry Henry revealed that the England national team pushed hard to recruit Bayern Munich's Michael Olise before he made his debut for France's senior team.
England wanted Michael Olise for the European Championship in Germany shortly before the Olympic Games in Paris in the summer of 2024.
Thierry Henry said on the Kampo podcast: "Michael called me every day to talk about taking part in the Olympics, even though the England national team wanted him for the European Championship. But I didn’t have to convince anyone."
Olise's affinity for France
According to Thierry Henry, a switch to the England national team was never an option for Michael Olise.
Thierry Henry said Michael Olise has been a big fan of the French national team since childhood.
Because of his background, Michael Olise was eligible to represent four national teams: France, England, Algeria or Nigeria.
Michael Olise had played exclusively for France at youth level.
Vieira's talk with Olise
Patrick Vieira had spoken to Michael Olise about his choice of national team.
Patrick Vieira told the sports newspaper L'Equipe: "He explained to me that he sees a greater chance of becoming world champion with France than with England."
Olise's path in France team
Under coach Didier Deschamps, Michael Olise made his senior France debut in September 2024.
Competitive appearances in the Nations League in autumn 2024 established Michael Olise in the France side and soon ruled out a switch of national teams.
France, with Michael Olise, and England were both knocked out in the semi-finals of the World Cup held in the summer.
Michael Olise now has 29 international appearances and 11 goals for France.
Michael Olise is described as a regular starter for France under new national coach Zinedine Zidane.
