Sunday Oliseh Laments Michael Olise’s Decision to Snub Nigeria for France

Former Nigeria captain Sunday Oliseh has voiced his disappointment over Michael Olise’s decision to represent France instead of Nigeria at international level.

Speaking on his Global Football Insights Podcast ahead of Bayern Munich’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash against Real Madrid, Oliseh praised the winger’s immense talent but admitted frustration over his international allegiance.

“When I see the way Olise plays, I love it,” Oliseh said. “But it gets me angry that I am saying Olise should not be wearing the French national team jersey; he should be wearing the green-white-green jersey of Nigeria.”

The former midfielder, who played for top European clubs like Juventus and Borussia Dortmund, highlighted Olise’s composure and elite potential.

“He is so good and might one day contend for the Ballon d’Or. Defenders are feeling helpless against him, and now they foul him, insult him to provoke him, and he is a quiet person,” he added.

Born in England to a Nigerian father and a French-Algerian mother, Olise was eligible to represent multiple nations. However, the 24-year-old committed his international future to France, making his senior debut in 2023.

Oliseh’s comments reflect a broader concern in Nigerian football about dual-nationality players opting to represent other countries despite their eligibility for the Super Eagles.