Luis Figo Names Michael Olise as One of the Favorites to Win the Ballon D’Or.

In light of Bayern Munich's strong present and their offensive lineup and strategy, Michael Olise emerges as a candidate for the award

A great time for Bayern and Olise

Michael Olise is experiencing a defining moment in European soccer. At the age of 24, the Frenchman has established himself as a contender for the Ballon d'Or thanks to an outstanding season. His performance in the Champions League quarter-finals against Real Madrid, where he was named Man of the Match, firmly put him in the spotlight

Luis Figo nominates Olise

Last Monday, at the Laureus World Sports Awards, Luis Figo, winner of the Ballon d'Or in 2000, paid tribute to the talent of the Bayern Munich winger. “My opinion hasn't changed; he's an incredible player who made a difference in the quarter-finals,” he stated. He added, “He's having an incredible year, so I would say he's one of the favorites to win the Ballon d'Or.” It's a very pleasant surprise, and for soccer fans, it's a pleasure to watch him play.”

When asked about the rumors linking Olise to Real Madrid, Figo was blunt: “It's complicated because he's already at a top European club. But there is no doubt that he is a great signing for Bayern, which has secured an excellent deal."

Olise's current situation and the battle for the Ballon d'Or

The Bavarian team signed him from Crystal Palace in the summer of 2024 for $62 million. This season, Olise has played 44 games, scoring 18 goals and providing 29 assists. Last Sunday, Bayern were crowned Bundesliga champions and are now aiming for the German Cup against Bayer Leverkusen and the Champions League semifinals against PSG.

The battle for the Ballon d'Or will hinge on team titles and the upcoming World Cup. However, recognition from figures like Figo confirms that Olise is no longer just a rising star: today, he is an undisputed star, and his bid for the Ballon d'Or threatens to become a reality in the race for the throne of world soccer.