Michael Olise has emerged as a key playmaker for France at the 2026 World Cup, showcasing his creativity and vision on the field despite yet to score his first goal in the tournament. The 24-year-old has already provided five assists, becoming the first player to reach this milestone in a single World Cup since Germany’s Thomas Hassler did so in 1994.

Olise’s transition from a right-wing role at club level, where he plays for Bayern Munich, to a central playmaking position with the national team has proven effective. France’s head coach Didier Deschamps praised Olise’s ability to connect the midfield and attack, noting that he supports teammates by distributing passes and dropping back to aid in midfield play. “When Michael is on the ball, things can happen,” Deschamps said, emphasizing Olise’s importance in feeding France’s forwards and his potential to reach the level of star teammate Kylian Mbappe.

The young midfielder’s performances have drawn comparisons to French football greats. Former Arsenal player and France international Patrick Vieira, who previously coached Olise, expressed strong belief in his potential. “We had Michel Platini, we had Zinedine Zidane and I strongly believe we now have Michael Olise. He’s a future Ballon d’Or winner,” Vieira said. Platini, a legendary former captain and coach of France, also voiced admiration for Olise’s capabilities and adaptability. He highlighted the modern trend of using playmakers on the wings, a role Olise fulfills at the club level, but noted that Deschamps has shifted him centrally to better utilize his skills. Platini praised the understanding between Olise and Mbappe on the pitch, describing it as a shared football intelligence.

While Olise’s influence on the field grows, he prefers to avoid the spotlight off it. Deschamps acknowledged Olise’s introverted nature but underlined how the midfielder transforms when playing. “His personality is introverted but the important thing is he doesn’t stay introverted when he’s out on the pitch,” the coach said.

Olise now stands as a central figure in what has become one of the tournament’s most impressive teams. Despite his contributions, some have noted that he could have been an asset to England, a country he chose not to represent internationally. Nevertheless, France’s emergence of Olise as a creative force underscores their strength as contenders in the 2026 World Cup.