José Mourinho moved, but Bayern Munich's answer was firm. Michael Olise is not a player to sell.
The Sun of the U.K. reported on the 24th (Korean time) that Mourinho, likely to return to Real Madrid, attended the DFB-Pokal final in person and appeared to watch Olise more closely than Harry Kane. According to the report, Mourinho observed Bayern's match on site to assess the resources needed to rebuild Real for the new season.
Real faces change again. Amid continued speculation about Mourinho's return, a squad overhaul is also expected. Multiple positions from the attack to midfield and the flanks are under review. In that context, Olise's name has emerged. Olise quickly increased his influence at Bayern. He showed the cut-ins from the flank, left-footed shooting, passing options and finishing ability. After proving himself in England, he has also adapted successfully in Germany.
There is plenty of reason for Real to be interested. There are not many players who can provide both creativity and goal threat on the right flank. Even with attacking options such as Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo and Kylian Mbappé, balance is another matter. A player like Olise who can carry the ball and deliver the final pass would be highly useful in a Mourinho-style rebuild.
But Bayern closed the door. The Sun reported that honorary chairman Uli Hoeneß expressed a position to the effect that Olise is a "player who cannot be sold." The reason Bayern draws such a hard line is clear. Olise is both the present and the future. With Harry Kane responsible for scoring and Jamal Musiala making a difference in the center, Olise disturbs opposing defenses from the flank. There is no reason to let such a player go one or two years after signing him.
Domestic fans are also highly interested because he is a teammate of Kim Min-jae. Bayern has been a team that bought stars in recent years, but it is also a team targeted by big clubs. Most clubs become tense when Real moves. But Bayern is one of the few teams that do not easily waver even in front of Real.
There is also no reason for Olise to hurry. Bayern has a top-level European squad and is a team that can aim for the Champions League title. He is also increasing his role in the France national team. Ahead of the World Cup, playing in a stable environment may be more important.
Mourinho is famous for his eye for players. If he has singled out Olise, there is a reason. But this time the opponent is Bayern. Real Madrid's name value and Mourinho's presence are not yet sufficient. Bayern sees Olise as a cornerstone of a new era. Transfer rumors have surfaced, but the German champion's answer was short and strong: "not for sale."
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