Two years ago, Michael Olise was still waiting for his phone to ring. Now he’s the player France’s World Cup hopes might hinge on.

The Bayern Munich winger, who only received his first senior call-up in August 2024, has transformed from international newcomer to indispensable attacking weapon in remarkably short order. His hat-trick against Northern Ireland on June 8, a 3-1 victory in France’s final pre-tournament friendly, was less a statement of arrival than a confirmation of what everyone already suspected: Olise is ready for the biggest stage in football.

From Crystal Palace to World Cup cornerstone

Born in London on December 12, 2001, he qualified for France through his mother. After a breakout season at Crystal Palace that turned heads across Europe, Bayern Munich came calling ahead of the 2024/25 campaign. He established himself as a fixture on Bayern’s right flank, contributing meaningfully in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League throughout the season.

France manager Didier Deschamps announced Olise’s first senior call-up on August 29, 2024. His debut came just over a week later, on September 6, against Italy. In the months since, he has accumulated 17 caps and 7 goals for Les Bleus, numbers that would be impressive for any attacker but are genuinely striking for someone who hadn’t played a single senior international match before September 2024.

France’s attacking embarrassment of riches

Former French defender Gael Clichy has gone so far as to suggest Olise could be a breakout star at the World Cup. The 2026 tournament is hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the USA.

Deschamps named Olise to France’s 2026 World Cup squad on May 11.

What the World Cup means for Olise’s stock

France enters the 2026 World Cup as a two-time defending champion favorite, having won the tournament in 2018.

The hat-trick against Northern Ireland was a perfect tune-up. Three goals in a single match, even a friendly, demonstrates the clinical finishing that separates good wingers from great ones.