Michael Olise's transformation at Bayern Munich has propelled him into Ballon d'Or contention after a stunning Champions League performance against Atalanta. The former Crystal Palace winger scored twice and assisted once in Bayern's 6-1 first-leg victory, continuing his remarkable form since joining from the Premier League in 2024.

Olise has amassed 23 assists this season, the most in Europe's top five leagues, with 38 goal involvements making him Europe's most productive winger. Bayern manager Vincent Kompany compares his mentality to Kevin De Bruyne, praising his obsession with detail. European football expert Julien Laurens notes Olise's growth since moving from London, crediting his Olympic experience and cultural adjustment for his development.

With 15 goals and 23 assists already this season, Olise's numbers rival recent Ballon d'Or winners. Bayern still chase a treble, and Olise is set for France's World Cup squad. While manager Didier Deschamps plans to use him as a number 10, Laurens questions changing a player thriving in his current position. Given his current form, Olise's Ballon d'Or case continues to strengthen.