Bayern sporting director Max Eberl backs Michael Olise after viral post‑match interview

Bayern Munich’s sporting director Max Eberl publicly defended French midfielder Michael Olise on Thursday, following the player’s blunt post‑match interview that went viral after his brace in a 5‑0 Champions League win over Bodø/Glimt. Eberl’s remarks came ahead of Bayern’s upcoming league fixture against SV Elversberg and were aimed at quelling the criticism that had erupted on social media.

Eberl emphasized that Olise’s primary focus is football, stating, “Michael Olise is someone who wants to play football. All the stuff around it leaves him rather cold. We already saw that at his unveiling two years ago. Not everyone is the same.” He added that the player’s attitude should be judged by his performances rather than his media demeanor.

The Bayern hierarchy pointed to Olise’s on‑field contributions as evidence of his value, noting that the 22‑year‑old has already amassed five goals and an assist in the opening five matches of the 2026/27 campaign. “If we look at the numbers, he got the Man of the Match award three times in five games. I’d much rather that,” Eberl said.

Vincent Kompany, Bayern’s head coach, echoed the director’s sentiment, questioning the journalist’s role in the controversy. “Aren’t you satisfied that this has now gone viral? If he answers every question the way I do, nothing goes viral,” the Belgian manager remarked, adding that sponsors benefit from the heightened attention.

Both Eberl and Kompany stressed that Olise’s demeanor does not harm the club’s commercial partners. “Sponsors simply want people to talk about him. When Michael is there, people talk about the sponsors. Michael’s manner has no bad value for any sponsor or journalist,” Kompany explained.

Since joining Bayern from Crystal Palace in 2024, Olise has recorded 47 goals and 56 assists, establishing himself as a key creative outlet. The club’s leadership appears intent on shielding the player from undue scrutiny, urging fans and media to focus on his contributions on the pitch.

The statements come as Bayern prepares for a domestic clash with Elversberg, a match that will test whether the team can maintain its momentum while navigating the off‑field spotlight surrounding one of its rising stars.