Michael Olise has capped off a remarkable 2026 with France by creating another piece of history after completing his first Nations League campaign. The Bayern Munich winger has been one of France’s most influential attacking players this year, combining goals and assists with his creativity and consistent performances. His latest achievement places him alongside one of the greatest French forwards of the modern era, Thierry Henry.
Michael Olise Records 17 Goal Contributions for France in 2026
Olise has been directly involved in 17 goals for France in 2026, registering seven goals and 10 assists across the calendar year.
That remarkable tally puts the 24-year-old among France’s most productive attacking players in the 21st century. His ability to create chances for teammates while also contributing regularly on the scoresheet has made him an increasingly important part of the French national team.
Olise’s creativity has been particularly impressive, even in the new-look France team under Zidane. Operating from wide areas and frequently drifting into central positions, he has developed into a player capable of influencing matches in multiple ways. His passing range, vision and ability to deliver dangerous final balls have made him a major attacking weapon for France.
Michael Olise Becomes Second French Player Behind Thierry Henry
Olise’s 17 goal involvements make him only the second France player in the 21st century to directly contribute to at least 17 goals in a single calendar year.
The only player ahead of him is legendary French striker Thierry Henry, who was directly involved in 19 goals for France in 2003.
Olise therefore sits just two goal contributions behind Henry’s remarkable benchmark, putting his 2026 international campaign into exceptional company.
The comparison is particularly significant given Henry’s status as one of France’s greatest-ever players. Henry’s 2003 campaign was defined by his goalscoring ability and attacking influence, while Olise has reached his impressive total through a combination of scoring and creating.
Olise’s France Rise Continues
The record provides further evidence of Olise’s rapid rise on the international stage. Since establishing himself with France, he has increasingly become a player trusted to provide creativity and attacking quality in important matches.
Finishing a calendar year with seven goals and 10 assists is a remarkable return, particularly for a player still establishing himself at international level.
With his first Nations League campaign now complete, Olise has already etched his name into France’s 21st-century record books. Only Henry stands above him, and Olise’s continued development could give him further opportunities to challenge even more historic benchmarks.