In football, the calmest players can be most commanding. This body language isn’t exhibited by many; however, those who can embody it can weather any storm that comes their way.
Michael Olise’s body language is proving to be quite a statement of control. The French star’s dominance on the left flank is noticeable; however, what is more noticeable is the way he carries himself.
A recent clip of Olise casually inspecting the pitch ahead of France’s game has gone viral. Not because of what he did, but how he did it. No urgency, no theatrics, just a quiet, almost effortless presence.
There is a certain nonchalance to Olise, the way he walks, scans the ground, and carries himself. It feels almost detached, as if he’s operating on his own tempo while everything moves around him. It’s not laziness, and it’s definitely not disinterest. If anything, it’s control.
In Modern football, expressive players and calm/low-key operators are two opposite sides of the spectrum. Expressive players wear their emotions on their sleeves, celebrate loudly and bring visible intensity to every moment, making them instantly captivating. However, on the other hand, you have calm, low-key players who operate with quiet control; their body language is composed, and their decisions are measured.
Whether it’s gliding past opponents on the left flank, cutting into the right and having a shot at goal or simply positioning himself off the ball. Olise comes across as the calm/lowkey operator.
Footballers in today’s day and age are not just athletes; they are personalities who are idolised for their behaviour on and off the pitch. In the glitz of social media and paparazzi today, their smallest moments can instantly become a main talking point.
Given the evolving social media paradigm, content is being consumed differently, and the heroes emerging from it are trends and viral moments. These trends and viral moments are ever-defining, and fans are beginning to connect to the player’s personality rather than just their performance.
The Rise of Michael Olise
Olise’s ascent has not been a short story. He burst onto the scene when he was 17 years old, donning the Reading jersey when they took on Leeds United in the EFL Championship on the 12th of March 2019. He went on to make 73 appearances for The Royals, finding the back of the net 7 times.
His transfer to Crystal Palace on the 8th of July 2021 would be a turning point in his career. The flair and creativity he showcased at Crystal Palace caught the attention of many clubs who were looking to plot a move for the promising winger. Leading the way was Bayern Munich, who were desperate to land the star, and their efforts to secure his services proved successful on the 7th of July 2024. They signed him for a fee of €53 million plus add-ons. He had inked a 5 year-contract with no release clause.
Beyond numbers, what makes Olise stand out is his temperament. In a high-pressure environment where players are expected to show urgency, Olise brings something different.
He is composed in moments when chaos often takes over, and, most importantly, he looks comfortable doing so. That comfort is what sets him apart.
The pitch inspection may be a small moment, but it says a lot.
Because in modern football, how you carry yourself is just as important as what you produce. Michael Olise is mastering both without looking like he is trying.
