‘Michael Olise is a real challenger for the Ballon d’Or’ — Pundit says Bayern Munich star has claim to trophy

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JUNE 16: Michael Olise #11 of France is presented with the Superior Player of the Match Trophy after the 3-1 win during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match between France and Senegal at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 16, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Shaun Botterill - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Michael Olise’s rise over the last year has been nothing short of remarkable, and former Chelsea and France winger Florent Malouda believes the Bayern Munich star has firmly entered the Ballon d’Or conversation.Malouda explained why he feels the Frenchman has a legitimate chance to win the coveted award.

“Michael Olise is a real challenger for the Ballon d’Or because of the level that he played at all season and I mentioned the leadership role that he’s taking in the French national team, which is very impressive. So if France win the World Cup, of course, he will be one of the challengers. And let’s not forget Ousmane Dembele.

Dembele had a season where he had to deal with a few setbacks and injuries,” Malouda told BOYLE Sports, who offer the latest football odds. “But he won the Champions League and he’s still there, he’s still a big part of the French national team now. He’s almost the vice-captain of this national team.

So those two will not be too far. And since they did the back-to-back with PSG, I think Dembele is looking for a back-to-back with the Ballon d’Or, which has not been done since Messi and Ronaldo.”For Bayern Munich fans, hearing Olise mentioned alongside the biggest names in world football is a testament to how quickly he has become one of the club’s most important players.

Since arriving in Munich, the French international has transformed Bayern’s attack with his creativity, finishing ability, and composure in big moments. More importantly, he has shown an ability to carry responsibility that is rare for a player still entering his prime.The World Cup could ultimately decide wh