“I hope one day he’ll be in a league with Platini and Zidane” - Saliba on Olise

France centre-back William Saliba has delivered a glowing assessment of Michael Olise, describing the Bayern Munich attacker as a “star” and one of the most technically gifted players in the national team setup.

Michael Olise for France.

Photo: Dan Mullan / Getty Images.

William Saliba has become the latest high-profile figure to underline the growing influence of Michael Olise, with the France defender praising his teammate’s extraordinary technical ability and maturity on the ball.

Speaking about the Bayern Munich winger, Saliba left little doubt about how highly he rates the 24-year-old.

“As everyone can see, I think he's a star. He's a very, very good player.”

Olise has enjoyed a rapid rise over the past year, establishing himself as one of Europe’s most exciting attacking players and becoming an increasingly important figure for both club and country. His creativity, composure and ability to decide matches have earned widespread admiration, and Saliba believes his impact is already evident whenever he takes to the pitch.

The Arsenal defender was keen to stress, however, that comparisons with legendary French playmakers Michel Platini and Zinedine Zidane remain premature.

“Of course there is still a long way to go before he can be compared to Michel Platini or Zinedine Zidane. But in any case, it's a pleasure to have him in our team.”

Despite urging caution, Saliba did not hide his belief that Olise possesses the qualities needed to eventually enter that conversation.

“He's a player who can do everything and who can break the deadlock in all sort of situations. I hope that one day he'll be in a league with Platini and Zidane, but it's too early now.”

One of the most striking aspects of Saliba’s praise centred on Olise’s decision-making. While many gifted attackers rely heavily on individual brilliance, the defender highlighted the winger’s intelligence and efficiency as key strengths.

“Technically he is world-class. He can shoot, he can dribble, he can pass… he always plays the right ball and makes the right decision.”

“He's not the type of player who'll try to dribble past everyone. When he needs to pass, he passes. When he needs to dribble, he dribbles."

For Saliba, that combination of technical excellence and football intelligence sets Olise apart from many players of his generation. Rather than seeking the spectacular at every opportunity, the Bayern star consistently chooses the option that benefits the team most.

As expectations around Olise continue to grow, Saliba’s comments offer a glimpse into the esteem in which he is held within the France camp. Surrounded by some of the world's best players, the winger has already established himself as a fan favourite among teammates.

And for Saliba, the verdict is simple:

“Honestly, it's a pleasure to watch him play.”

With his reputation continuing to soar, Olise appears well placed to become a cornerstone of France’s future, even if, as Saliba himself admits, comparisons with Platini and Zidane can wait for another day.