Gernot Rohr lifts lid on Super Eagles' failed bid to land Bayern Munich star Michael Olise

Former coach Gernot Rohr has now shed light on why the talented winger slipped through their grasp.

Rohr, who was brought in by former Amaju Pinnick in 2016, oversaw a period of steady progress for Nigeria. The Super Eagles became the first African side to book their place at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, although they exited in the group stage. He also led the team to a third-place finish at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations before his dismissal in 2021.

A key part of Rohr's strategy was recruiting dual-nationality players, a move that brought success with several additions to the squad. However, Olise proved to be one of the most notable players they failed to secure.

The Bayern Munich attacker, eligible to represent multiple countries, ultimately chose France over Nigeria despite early contact from Rohr and his technical team.

The German tactician revealed that they had closely monitored Olise during his time at Reading and attempted to bring him into the fold.

"In 2019, I saw this player with my assistant Tunde. We went to watch a match and tried to invite him, but he did not want to join us at the time. I think he already knew he could have a big future in Europe and play for several countries," Rohr said in an interview with Brila as reported by Soccernet.

"Six or seven years ago when we saw him, he was already so strong. Unfortunately, he refused to play for Nigeria."

Olise has since flourished at FC Bayern Munich, forming a potent attacking unit alongside Harry Kane and Luis Díaz.

Now representing the France national football team at senior level, the 24-year-old has already made his mark internationally and is expected to feature prominently at the 2026 FIFA World Cup - a stage Nigeria will miss, further underlining the magnitude of the opportunity lost.