Thierry Henry reveals Michael Olise's passion for the 2024 Olympics

Thierry Henry revealed that Michael Olise, newly arrived at Bayern Munich, was eager to represent France at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. He even said that the Englishman called him every day, but Olise immediately gave his consent to join the squad.

Henry had faced several refusals when he compiled his list for the Olympics, but Olise immediately gave his consent. The Englishman could have chosen to play for England at the European Championship, but he preferred the French.

Born in London in 2001 to a Nigerian father and a French‑Algerian mother, Michael Olise has never hesitated to put France above all else. He never considered representing another national team, as Henry confirms, who coached him with the Under‑21s and during the Olympic Games.

Henry's statement in the podcast

In the Kampo podcast hosted by Smaïl Bouabdellah, Henry said: « Michael, he called me every day to go to the Olympics, while the England team wanted him for the Euro. »

Michael Olise chooses France despite England and Bayern

He added that some players refused to leave, but Olise accepted despite the risk of upsetting his new club, Bayern Munich.

Olise even told Henry: « Where I’m going, I’ll tell my club that I’m going to the Olympic Games, that’s all. »

Henry hails Olise as a genius and stresses his elusive talent

Henry emphasized his immense respect for the young midfielder, who contributed to the French’s silver medal a few weeks after his transfer from Crystal Palace to Bayern.