The departure of Mohamed Salah at the end of the season has ignited a frantic search for his replacement at Liverpool. The club faces a monumental task: finding a player capable of filling the void left by a true icon.
Former England international Owen Hargreaves believes the answer lies in Munich. He passionately advocates for Liverpool to pursue Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise, arguing that the club cannot afford the risk of developing a young, unproven talent.
Hargreaves insists Liverpool needs a player who is immediately ready to perform at the highest level of European football. He sees Olise as possessing the rare, captivating quality – a “box office” presence – that would electrify Anfield.
Olise’s current form is nothing short of spectacular. In the 2025/26 Bundesliga season, he has already amassed 11 goals and 19 assists in just 25 appearances. Across all competitions, his tally stands at an astonishing 16 goals and 27 assists in 39 games.
This incredible output has driven his market value towards an estimated €200 million (£170m). Olise isn’t just scoring goals; he’s consistently creating opportunities for his teammates, making him one of the most impactful players in Europe.
A direct comparison to Salah at the same age reveals a compelling case for Olise. During the 2016/17 season with Roma, a 24-year-old Salah recorded 15 goals and 13 assists in 31 Serie A matches.
While those numbers were impressive enough to warrant a move to Liverpool, Olise is currently exceeding that pace while playing for a dominant Bayern Munich team. He’s demonstrating a more immediate and potent attacking threat.
Looking at the statistics, the difference is striking. In 41 games, Salah had 33 goal contributions (goals + assists). Olise, in 50 games, has already achieved 43. His current trajectory suggests a player who is not just a goalscorer, but a complete attacking force.
Hargreaves’ conviction is clear: replacing Salah requires a player who instantly commands attention and delivers results. Michael Olise, with his exceptional form and proven ability, appears to be the ideal candidate to continue Liverpool’s attacking legacy.
