Michael Olise Breaks Over 50-Year-Old Record Set by a Legend

Though Michael Olise did not score a goal at the World Cup, he has made it into the history books by breaking a record that stood for over 50 years.

The FC Bayern Munich attacking player provided seven assists for France. Two of these came during the goal-fest against England on Saturday in the third-place playoff, which Les Bleus ultimately lost 4-6.

With these assists, Olise surpassed none other than Brazilian football legend Pelé, who set up six goals at the 1970 World Cup. It's worth noting that Pelé achieved this in six matches, while the FCB star participated in eight games during this extended tournament format.

In theory, Michael Olise could still be surpassed by Lionel Messi as the sole top assist provider of this World Cup if the superstar were to set up three goals for Argentina in the final against Spain. Currently, the 39-year-old has four assists, and he also holds the all-time record for assists in all his World Cup appearances with a total of twelve. This places him ahead of compatriot Diego Maradona (eight) and Pelé himself, although there is some debate among scholars regarding Pelé's exact assist count, with figures ranging from seven to ten across his four World Cup participations.

Incredible Ratio: Will Olise Also Claim the All-Time Record?

The exceptional nature of Olise's assist tally is evident when directly comparing it to Messi's World Cup appearances. The 24-year-old's eight assists contrast with Messi's 33. If Olise maintains even a fraction of his current assist rate in future World Cup tournaments, he would significantly surpass Messi's record.

However, when it comes to scoring goals, there is a considerable difference between the two exceptional players, at least in this World Cup. While Messi scored eight goals and has a total of 21, Olise remained without a goal of his own. He had opportunities to score multiple times against England, and at least one clear chance should have resulted in a goal. At a score of 3-4, in the 81st minute, he missed a clear shot from about eleven meters to the right of the goal, despite the goalkeeper Dean Henderson already being beaten.

Nevertheless, Olise can look back on an impressive first World Cup, which has likely further increased his market value. His future at the club level, however, appears to be uncertain. While FC Bayern officials have repeatedly emphasized in recent weeks and months that the attacking player is not for sale, reports suggest that Olise desires a move to Real Madrid. Discussions about his future are expected to take place upon Olise's return to Munich.