France international Michael Olise has spoken about his connection to Nigeria and his multicultural background.
Born in London to a Nigerian father and an Algerian mother, Olise was eligible to represent four different countries. However, after playing for France at the 2024 Paris Olympics, he committed to the French national team.
Despite his decision, the former Crystal Palace winger acknowledges his ties to all the countries in his heritage.
“I have strong connections with Nigeria, Algeria, France, and England,” Olise said.
“It’s not something I think about every day—it’s just normal for me.”
“I carry a bit of each country within me. It has shaped my perspective because these cultures are so different from each other.”
“At home, I experienced three cultures through my parents, and outside, it was England, where I grew up. I never had to force this mix—it was just part of me,” he explained.
