Nike Targets Michael Olise as New Face of Football Following Mbappe's Exit

Nike has reportedly identified Bayern Munich forward Michael Olise as its next major football ambassador following Kylian Mbappe's decision to end his long-standing partnership with the American sportswear giant. 

Mbappe announced in September that he would leave Nike after a career-long association with the brand to become the face of Swiss sportswear company On, marking a significant shift in his commercial career.

The France international first signed with Nike at the age of nine. During their partnership, the company released several signature editions of his football boots and established him as one of the leading faces of its global football campaigns.

One of the major attractions behind Mbappe's move was the opportunity to help On break into football through the design and development of its first football boots. The agreement also reportedly gives him a financial stake in the brand's future, allowing him to build a business interest rather than simply endorse an established sportswear manufacturer.

Although Nike still has established global stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo under its sponsorship portfolio, Mbappe's departure has created an opportunity for the company to identify a new face capable of leading its football division into the next generation.

According to emerging reports, the company has set its sights on Olise, Mbappe's compatriot, as a potential successor.

French newspaper L'Equipe reports that negotiations could soon lead to an agreement between Olise and Nike. Interestingly, the Bayern Munich forward already wears Nike football boots despite not having a formal sponsorship deal with the brand, making a potential partnership a natural fit.

However, Nike is not alone in its pursuit of the highly rated winger. Adidas and Mbappe's new sponsor, On, have also reportedly expressed interest in working with the player.

Nike is understood to be hoping to use some of the financial resources freed up by Mbappe's departure to secure Olise's signature and persuade him to turn down competing offers.

Sources close to the player say he has attracted approaches from several brands following his impressive performances over the past two years. However, one source stressed that commercial opportunities would not take priority over his football career.

"Michael prefers to focus on football and will only consider partnering with a brand if he feels it’s a perfect fit for him.”

Olise's future at Bayern Munich is also attracting considerable attention. His current contract with the German champions runs until 2029, but the club is keen to secure his long-term commitment with a new deal, following a similar approach to the one recently taken with Harry Kane.

The winger has also been linked with Real Madrid, with reports suggesting he was considered a potential replacement for Vinicius Junior during the summer transfer window, had the Brazilian left the Spanish giants.

Bayern, however, have made their position clear, insisting Olise is not for sale, even if an offer of €500 million were to arrive.