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Pundit says Arsenal target Olise could become ‘world-class’

By Ritayan Chatterjee on February 3, 2024

Former defender turned pundit Micah Richards has said that Arsenal target and Crystal Palace star Michael Olise has the potential to become a ‘world-class’ player in the future.

The Gunners have been exploring the possibility of signing a new right-winger over the last few years to support Bukayo Saka. However, despite being linked with numerous options, they haven’t opted to sign anyone yet.

But, Arsenal could finally look to sign a new attacker to reinforce their frontline as Saka has been playing almost every match and has looked a bit tired this season.

A few names have been mentioned as potential targets for the North London club with Olise emerging as a serious target. However, it has been suggested that signing the Crystal Palace star won’t be easy for Arsenal as Liverpool and Manchester United have also been contemplating a swoop for him.

Now, speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Richards has said that Olise is a highly talented player and has the potential to become a ‘world-class’ forward. However, the pundit states that the Frenchman needs to be careful before making his next move as he should join a team – where he will have the freedom to express himself.

Pundit heaps praise on Arsenal target Olise

Richards said:

“He[Olise] is going to be world-class. He’s just one of them young players who need to be guided in the right way when he leaves Palace, no disrespect to Palace fans, they probably want that money at some stage to rebuild anyway.

“But when he leaves, if he picks the right team where he’s allowed to express himself, he’s going to be a superstar. He’s that good. I remember watching him at the Etihad a couple of seasons ago. It’s not just his dribbling, it’s his decision-making – when to lay off the ball and his first touch is sublime. Yeah, he’s going to the very top.”

It has been suggested that Olise has a release clause of less than £60m so Arsenal could manage to secure the forward’s signature for a reasonable fee if they formalise their interest.

However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club can eventually manage to sign the forward if he leaves Crystal Palace at the end of this season.