German football legend Lothar Matthaus says he expects France star Michael Olise to stay at Bayern Munich despite mounting speculation over a possible move to Real Madrid.
The former Germany captain believes Bayern are still in the middle of building a side capable of challenging for major trophies and will not willingly part with one of their key players, who is under contract until the summer of 2029.
Bayern ‘on the right track’
Speaking to Sky, Matthaus praised Bayern’s transfer strategy and suggested further signings could follow.
He said: “The club wants to be successful and has already made two excellent signings, and I am convinced that its plans are not finished yet.”
Matthaus argued that Bayern’s current project makes a departure for Olise unlikely, especially at a time when the Bundesliga giants are attempting to reassert their dominance domestically and in Europe after recent setbacks.
According to German outlet Bild, Matthaus’ remarks come amid reports that French media have linked Olise with a potential switch to Real Madrid following his performances at the 2026 World Cup.
Tactical role under scrutiny
Matthaus also offered a detailed assessment of Olise’s role on the pitch, highlighting the difference between how he is used by France and how he fits into the Bayern set-up.
He noted that the winger featured centrally for his national team in the No 10 role in the World Cup, a position where Bayern already have several options.
“Olise played in the No. 10 role with the French national team, but Bayern already have two or three players in this position. He can also play as a striker if necessary, and he has done that with Bayern,” Matthaus explained.
However, the 1990 World Cup winner believes Olise is at his most dangerous when deployed in his more natural wide role.
“I think he feels more comfortable in his real position on the right wing, and there he has delivered better performances with Bayern compared to what he showed as a striker with France during the World Cup,” he added.
World Cup conversations with Real Madrid stars
Reports from France have suggested that during the 2026 World Cup Olise privately expressed an interest in joining Real Madrid.
Those reports claim the Bayern forward spoke with several Real Madrid players, including Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni, to ask about the atmosphere and working conditions inside the Spanish club.
The conversations have fuelled speculation that Madrid, who have a long history of attracting high-profile talent from across Europe, could move for Olise as they continue to refresh their attacking options.
Bayern determined to keep key asset
Despite those rumours, multiple reports in Germany indicate Bayern have no intention of sanctioning a sale.
The Bavarian club are said to view Olise as one of the cornerstones of their long-term sporting project, with his contract running until 2029 providing them with a strong negotiating position.
Bayern’s stance, combined with Matthaus’ public backing and belief in the club’s direction, underlines the message from Munich that they are focused on consolidating and strengthening rather than cashing in on emerging stars.
With Real Madrid monitoring the situation and Olise’s World Cup displays drawing wider attention, his future is likely to remain a talking point. But, for now, one of Germany’s most respected football voices is adamant that Bayern intend to keep him at the heart of their plans.
