Michael Olise is world’s best player and deserves Ballon d’Or, says France legend Willy Sagnol

Former France and Bayern Munich defender Willy Sagnol believes Michael Olise has separated himself from every other player in world football and insists the Bayern Munich winger deserves to win this year’s Ballon d’Or after an outstanding World Cup campaign.

Sagnol backs Olise for Ballon d’Or

Olise has been one of the standout performers at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, playing a leading role in France’s run through the tournament with a string of influential displays.

His performances have left Sagnol in no doubt that the 24-year-old should be crowned the world’s best player when Ballon d’Or voting concludes.

Speaking to BILD, Sagnol said: “Olise is the best in the world, far ahead of all other players. If he doesn’t win the Ballon d’Or at the end of the year, something is seriously wrong with football.”

The former Bayern defender believes Olise’s intelligence, creativity and consistency have elevated him above every other player this season, while also making him one of France’s biggest footballing idols.

‘A true team player’

Sagnol reserved particular praise for Olise’s selfless style, arguing that the winger prioritises the collective over individual achievements.

“Olise is simply a pure team player, not an individualist,” Sagnol explained. “For our children, there is finally a great role model.

“To put it bluntly, Olise couldn’t care less whether he scores, provides an assist, or not. You can see that he doesn’t think about doing something for himself, but always looks at what helps the team.”

The Georgia head coach even compared Olise’s mentality to French icon Zinedine Zidane, claiming the Bayern star shares the same willingness to sacrifice personal glory for the success of the team.

Messi and Ronaldo comparison

Sagnol also offered a controversial comparison with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, suggesting Olise’s approach differs from two of football’s greatest-ever players.

“Zinedine Zidane was exactly the same,” he continued. “Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have dominated world football over the last 15 years, played a bit more for themselves and for their statistics.

“Nothing against Ronaldo and Messi, they are great. Olise is just a true team player.”

Madrid links continue to grow

The praise arrives as speculation over Olise’s future continues to intensify despite his impressive first season at Bayern Munich.

Reports have linked the French international with a sensational move to Real Madrid, where he could join compatriot Kylian Mbappe in a new-look attack.

Sagnol acknowledged the differences between the two French stars, describing Mbappe as a player more focused on his own achievements, while insisting Olise’s primary concern is always the success of the team.

Mbappe, meanwhile, has also spoken positively about Olise in recent weeks, praising his vision and elegance as France continue their pursuit of World Cup glory.