The Bayern Munich winger also recognized as best French footballer abroad, capping a stellar year
Category: Arts & Culture
Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise has been voted the Bundesliga Player of the Season for 2025/26, as confirmed on May 16, 2026. The award was presented by DFL CEOs Marc Lenz and Steffen Merkel at the Allianz Arena, shortly before the presentation of the Bundesliga Meisterschale to the champions. Olise, 24, was celebrated for his remarkable contributions throughout the season, scoring 15 goals and providing 19 assists, marking him as the first player since the 2019/20 season to achieve at least 15 of each in a single Bundesliga campaign.
The honor reflects Olise's dynamic performance and his emergence as a key player for Bayern Munich. "Michael Olise is a spectacular player who can make the difference, who has made his mark in the 2025/26 Bundesliga season with his dynamism, finesse, consistency and goals," Lenz and Merkel stated. They emphasized his role as a "poster boy for the league on a national and international level," highlighting his footballing and athletic excellence.
This accolade adds to Olise's growing list of achievements, which includes being named Rookie of the Season during his debut campaign in Germany. The Player of the Season award has been a fixture in the Bundesliga calendar since the 2019/20 season, with previous winners including Harry Kane in 2025, Florian Wirtz in 2024, and Jude Bellingham in 2023.
Olise's recognition comes on the heels of a remarkable season where he played a central role in Bayern Munich's success. On May 12, 2026, he was also voted the best French footballer playing abroad by the French players' union, UNFP, beating out notable competitors like Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid and Hugo Ekitiké of Liverpool. This recognition is particularly meaningful, considering the competition he faced, underscoring his prominent position in European football.
His contributions were instrumental in Bayern clinching the Bundesliga title with four games to spare, a feat that solidified his status among the league's elite. Throughout the season, Olise's performances have been characterized by his refined technique and dangerous dribbling, making him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
In a recent match against Wolfsburg on May 10, 2026, Olise scored a stunning second-half strike, contributing to a narrow 1-0 victory that highlighted his ability to perform under pressure. This goal secured three points for Bayern and demonstrated his capacity to deliver when it mattered most.
Looking ahead, Olise and Bayern Munich are set to face 1. FC Köln in their final Bundesliga match, where the Meisterschale will be presented. Following this, the team has an eagerly awaited cup final scheduled in Berlin on May 23, 2026. Olise's performances in these upcoming matches could be decisive as Bayern aims to secure additional silverware.
Beyond club commitments, Olise is preparing to represent France at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. His selection for the national team reflects his impressive form and contributions throughout the season, and he will look to carry his club success onto the international stage.
As Olise continues to build on his remarkable career, his recent accolades serve as a strong foundation for future success. His statement at the UNFP awards, where he expressed his desire to "win everything with France and with FC Bayern," resonates with fans and players alike, highlighting his ambition and determination.
With the Bundesliga season concluding and major tournaments on the horizon, attention will turn to Michael Olise as he seeks to add more achievements to his already impressive resume.