By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Bayern Munich forward Michael Olise has explained why he decided to play for France instead of Nigeria, England and Algeria at international level.
Olise, who was born in England to a Nigerian father and an Algerian-French mother, was eligible to play for Nigeria, Algeria, England, or France. Many Nigerian fans had hoped he would choose to represent the Super Eagles, but he has now made it clear why he picked France.
The 22-year-old said his decision was strongly influenced by his love for French football legends Zinedine Zidane and Thierry Henry, who were his childhood idols. He also spoke about feeling connected to France through his mother’s roots.
According to the Daily Mail, Olise’s admiration for these football icons played a big part in his choice. “He ultimately selected France, a decision that traces back to his childhood and his mother’s roots in the country,” the paper said.
Speaking to L’Équipe, Olise said, “I have a lot of different connections with Nigeria, Algeria, France, and England. But choosing France felt natural to me. I grew up watching French football and admired players like Zidane and Henry.”
He added, “At home, I had three cultures because of my parents, and outside it was England, where I grew up. I didn’t have to force this mix—it was just there.”
Olise has already played four times for the French national team after making his debut last September in a UEFA Nations League match against Italy.
Since joining Bayern Munich last summer, he has been in great form, scoring 13 goals and providing 11 assists in 40 matches across all competitions.