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Patrice Evra has shared with GOAL why he believes Michael Olise’s natural calmness and composed attitude are actually great assets, while also explaining what he considers the most difficult part of being a football superstar. The Bayern Munich attacker has been in exceptional form for both club and country, as he pursues World Cup glory on North American soil.

Rapid rise: From Reading to the World Cup for Olise

Olise entered the tournament following a sensational 2025-26 season, during which he scored 20 goals and provided 20 assists across 52 matches in all competitions. That impressive form has carried over into his international campaign, where he continues to shine alongside Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Bradley Barcola in France’s attacking lineup.

At just 24, Olise’s journey has been remarkable. Only a few years ago, in 2021, he was playing for Reading in the Championship. His move to Crystal Palace gave him a platform in the Premier League, leading to a big-money switch to Bayern Munich. Since then, his rise has shown no signs of slowing down.

Why Olise’s composed personality is seen as a strength

Olise’s route to the top has been far from conventional, defying expectations at multiple stages. When asked about his rapid development, former France international Evra, speaking in association with Stake, told GOAL: “I’m not surprised by Michael Olise. I’ve been watching him for quite some time. Everyone can see the talent, but what impresses me most is his maturity. He never seems hurried. Even when the game is moving fast, he plays like he has all the time in the world.”

Evra added, “I love his nonchalance. Some might think he’s too relaxed, but I see it as calm control. The best players make the hardest things look simple.”

“He can score, create, link up play, hold the ball, and work tirelessly for the team. That’s rare. At 24, he’s no longer a kid, but he still has so much ahead of him. If he maintains his hunger, France will have a world-class player for many years to come.”

Building a superstar: How Olise can stay at the top

Olise’s reputation has risen so high that reports suggest Real Madrid are closely monitoring him. It is claimed that Florentino Perez is ready to spend a record-breaking €223 million (£191 million/$255 million) to bring another ‘Galactico’ to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Such figures naturally raise questions about value, and football history has seen many bright talents fade after short-lived peaks. Evra was asked how Olise can avoid that fate, to which he responded: “The hardest thing in football is not reaching the top. The hardest thing is staying there. Talent gets you through the door, but your habits determine if you remain in the room.”

He continued, “Michael must protect what makes him unique. Keep the right people close, continue to enjoy the game, keep working hard, and don’t believe the outside noise too much. Every year, defenders study your game more. Every year, expectations rise. That’s when you discover who truly has the discipline.”

“From what I’ve seen, he doesn’t seem to play for attention. He plays because he loves football. If he keeps that joy, stays humble, and never thinks he’s already arrived, he’ll stay at the top for a very long time.”

World Cup and Ballon d’Or ambitions for Olise

Olise shows no signs of being distracted by fame. His grounded attitude and determination to keep improving continue to define his career. A World Cup victory would mark another major milestone, and success on the global stage could put him in the running for the Ballon d’Or, alongside stars like Kylian Mbappe and England captain Harry Kane, if France lift the trophy.