Player Spotlight: Michael Olise – How does he compare to Mohamed Salah?
Taking the League by Storm
When a player is taking the league by storm, has been courted by the big names and is known by the football universe, it usually leads to one thing. Michael Olise of Crystal Palace is drawing significant attention, not least from Liverpool, who are renowned for their smart recruitment strategy but from the other big boys and City attempted to get him last summer. With the transfer window narrative gaining momentum, Anfield Index look at the scouting report for the Palace winger
What’s Been Said
As per TeamTalk, Liverpool are amongst the bevy of clubs enticed by Michael Olise’s potential, with a particularly attractive exit clause in his contract at Crystal Palace. Reports suggest that Olise has scaled new heights since his arrival at Palace, sparking interest from a Liverpool side always on the lookout for dynamic forwards to enhance their attacking prowess. Teamtalk aren’t the only ones to link him with a move to Anfield.
The Key Stats
Olise’s stats are a testament to his impact on the pitch. At 22, he’s already notched up 5 goals and 1 assist in 9 Premier League appearances this season. With 80 appearances and 28 goal contributions in all competitions, his involvement equates to an impressive goal contribution every 2.8 games. His international tenure is also notable, with 7 caps for the France U21 team, adding a valuable dimension to his experience.
Salah Comparison
When juxtaposing Olise with Liverpool’s Egyptian maestro, Mohamed Salah, the stats offer a fascinating contrast. In the current season, Olise has a goal contribution rate of 0.66 goals per 90 minutes, with a total of 26 shots and an xG (expected goals) of 3.0, reflecting his clinical edge. Salah, on the other hand, boasts a contribution rate of 0.94 goals per 90 minutes, with 59 shots and an xG of 8.3, underscoring his role as Liverpool’s talisman. Olise’s passing accuracy sits at 72.1% with 276 attempts, while Salah’s precision is slightly less at 72.8% with 667 attempts. In creative play, Olise has racked up 44 SCA (Shot-Creating Actions) against Salah’s 88, showcasing the latter’s more substantial impact in constructing goal-scoring opportunities.
Likelihood and Fee – Release Clause?
Michael Olise’s market valuation by Transfermarkt stands at £50 million, a significant sum that Liverpool will have to consider, although there’s suggestions his renewal included a release clause. With a contract until 2027 and a weekly wage of £100,000, any potential move would be a considerable investment. Liverpool’s decision-makers now face the complex task of evaluating whether Olise’s potential impact and contribution would justify the financial outlay. It’s one to definitely one to keep an eye on and if another major player moves – we’ll be in the mix this summer.
