Thomas Muller tips Bayern's Michael Olise to overtake teammate Harry Kane in Ballon d'Or race

Thomas Muller tips Bayern's Michael Olise to overtake teammate Harry Kane in Ballon d'Or race

Former Bayern Munich forward Thomas Muller believes Michael Olise has the qualities needed to challenge for football's biggest individual award, placing the French winger ahead of teammate Harry Kane in the Ballon d'Or conversation.

Speaking to Sport BILD, Muller praised Kane as one of the world's finest forwards but suggested that the nature of the Ballon d'Or vote often favours players capable of producing moments of individual brilliance.

"With his finishing and attacking qualities, Harry is the best striker I currently see," Muller said. "He's got a wide range of qualities."

However, the Bayern legend pointed to Olise's creativity and flair as attributes that can make a difference when voters choose the world's best player.

"He's not a player who can dribble past four people," Muller said of Kane. "As far as the Ballon d'Or is concerned, the artistic element is taken into account."

Muller was clear that he still considers Kane the more important player in a team context, but believes Olise's style of play could give him an advantage in the race for football's most prestigious individual honour.

"Generally, I see Harry as the more important player, but when it comes to the vote for the World's Best Player, it's more for players like Olise," he explained.

The former Germany international was full of praise for the winger's natural talent and ability to entertain.

"Michael has this dance-like, artistic, ease, magic quality. You can't learn that," Müller said. "Michael is a player who delivers, a performer."

Muller's comments echo recent discussions around the Ballon d'Or race. Just over a month ago, football media outlet Score90 ranked Olise ahead of Kane among the leading contenders for the award, highlighting the growing recognition of the winger's impact and performances. 

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