Michael Olise’s Bayern Munich Form Strengthens Case for a Major Pay Rise
Michael Olise has quickly become one of Bayern Munich’s most influential players, yet he is still believed to earn less than several of the club’s established stars. After a commanding performance in Bayern’s 6-1 Bundesliga victory over RB Leipzig, former Germany captain Lothar Matthäus has urged the club to reward the French winger with a new contract and a substantial salary increase.
For Bayern supporters, the timing of the discussion is significant. Olise’s display against Leipzig came just days after a costly moment in the Champions League, when he was sent off against Viking Stavanger. Bayern went on to surrender their advantage and draw 3-3, leaving the winger facing criticism for allowing himself to be drawn into a confrontation.
But Matthäus believes Olise responded in the best possible way: by showing composure and letting his football do the talking. The former midfielder said the player endured several heavy challenges against Leipzig without reacting in frustration, suggesting that the experience in Norway had already served as a lesson.
Matthäus Sees a World-Class Talent in Olise
Matthäus also defended the way opponents try to contain Olise. Creative attackers are often targeted physically, and defenders may use persistent fouling or provocation to disrupt their rhythm. In Matthäus’ view, that treatment reflects the threat Olise poses rather than a weakness in his game.
To underline the point, he compared the challenge of stopping Olise with that of facing Diego Maradona, one of football’s most celebrated players. The comparison is striking, but it captures Matthäus’ belief that Olise has the rare ability to make opponents change their approach. When a winger can beat defenders, create chances and influence the tempo of a match, physical pressure often becomes part of the contest.
Olise arrived at Bayern from Crystal Palace in 2024 for a reported transfer fee of €53 million. At the time, he was viewed as a highly promising player with the potential to develop at the highest level. Since then, his performances have strengthened the argument that he is no longer simply a prospect: he is a key part of Bayern’s present and a major asset for the future.
How Much Does Michael Olise Earn at Bayern?
Reports place Olise’s current annual salary at around €13.5 million, a figure that leaves him below the highest earners in Bayern’s squad. That contract was agreed when he was still establishing himself as a top-level player, and his value has reportedly risen several times over since then.
Matthäus suggested that a salary reflecting Olise’s current market standing could be far higher, estimating that a direct valuation-based calculation might put his earnings in the region of €45 million to €47 million a year. He acknowledged, however, that Bayern would not need to meet such a figure. His practical recommendation is more measured: extend Olise’s deal by two or three years and offer him a significant increase that recognises his importance without placing an unrealistic burden on the club’s finances.
The debate highlights a familiar challenge for elite teams. A club must reward players who outperform their original contracts, while keeping its wage structure sustainable. Bayern are also working to manage squad costs, so any new deal would need to fit into a broader financial plan rather than be considered in isolation.
Could Bayern Use Savings Elsewhere in the Squad?
Matthäus believes Bayern may have room to fund an improved offer. He pointed to the possibility that goalkeeper Manuel Neuer could leave next year, potentially reducing the club’s wage bill. If that happens, Matthäus argued, Bayern could direct part of the savings towards Olise while still lowering overall salary expenses.
His suggestion is not a confirmed financial plan, and Neuer’s future remains a separate matter. Nevertheless, it illustrates the choices facing Bayern’s sporting leadership. The club must balance the cost of retaining proven performers against the long-term expense of replacing them. Losing a player of Olise’s quality could require a substantial transfer fee and create a difficult gap in the team’s attack.
There is also a strategic reason to act early. A longer contract would give Bayern greater control over Olise’s future and could strengthen the club’s negotiating position if another team made a serious approach. Matthäus argues that an extension could benefit both sides: Olise would receive improved terms, while Bayern would protect the value of a player who has become central to their plans.
What Is the Status of Olise’s Contract Talks?
Olise’s current Bayern contract reportedly runs until 2029, so the club is not facing an immediate expiry deadline. Even so, reports suggest Bayern have considered an extension and could be prepared to offer a salary of around €25 million a year, with additional bonuses. That would represent a major rise from his reported current earnings, while remaining below the much higher figure Matthäus mentioned as a theoretical market-value calculation.
For now, Olise is said to see little urgency in opening negotiations. His existing deal gives him security, while his performances continue to attract attention from major European clubs, including Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. Interest from such teams could increase Bayern’s need to clarify their long-term intentions, though it does not mean a transfer is inevitable.
What Bayern’s Next Move Could Mean
Olise’s situation is becoming one of Bayern’s most important contract questions. His influence on the pitch, growing reputation and reported interest from abroad all strengthen his position. At the same time, Bayern must decide how much they are willing to invest in keeping a player who has rapidly moved from promising signing to potential superstar.
Any prediction about the outcome remains uncertain: Olise has years left on his contract, and neither side is under immediate pressure to reach an agreement. But Matthäus’ message is clear. Bayern should not wait until the winger’s value rises further or rival clubs become more aggressive. A timely extension could reward Olise, protect the club’s investment and send a strong signal about the role he is expected to play in Munich for years to come.
