Michael Olise turns down Chelsea to pens new four-year contract with Crystal Palace

18 August, 2023

Crystal Palace has secured a significant victory by retaining the services of their young talent, Michael Olise, who has put pen to paper on a new four-year contract. This development comes as the club successfully fended off interest from Chelsea, a club with substantial allure. Steve Parish, owner of the Eagles, has personally confirmed the renewal.

Just a day earlier, reports had surfaced regarding Chelsea’s activation of a £35 million release clause present in Olise’s previous contract with Palace. Nevertheless, the promising France U21 international has chosen to align his future with the Eagles, a decision that has been met with widespread acclaim. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive football betting odds from Nextbet.

Despite currently recuperating from an injury sustained during the summer, Olise’s contributions in the previous season for Crystal Palace were commendable. With 11 assists and two goals to his name, his impact on the field has been instrumental.

Speaking about this decisive move, Palace manager Roy Hodgson expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s the best possible news we could have. The decision has been his.” Hodgson, who has shown immense faith in Olise’s potential, believes that the player’s youthful age presents a golden opportunity for rapid advancement. 

In a candid revelation, Hodgson shared, “I suggested that being at Crystal Palace would be the best option but I also made it clear I wouldn’t put him under unnecessary pressure. I congratulate Steve Parish and [sporting director] Dougie Freedman on a fantastic job.”

Parish, in an exclusive interview with Sky Sports News, conveyed his delight regarding Olise’s contract extension, emphasizing its role in dispelling uncertainties and boosting morale. The departure of Wilfried Zaha, a key player, had cast some doubts, but Olise’s decision has instilled renewed hope.

The blow to Chelsea’s aspirations is palpable. Despite having recently secured prominent signings, including Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, the club was unable to sway Olise. This decision underscores the belief Olise holds in Palace’s role in his development journey.

The context behind Olise’s choice to decline Chelsea’s offer remains multifaceted. While Chelsea’s offer met the release clause, no response was forthcoming from Olise or Palace after the proposal was made. Subsequently, Olise sealed the deal for a new four-year contract with Crystal Palace.

The details of this fresh contract have yet to be disclosed publicly. It remains uncertain whether a new release clause has been included, but Olise’s commitment to the club is evident. The decision indicates a firm desire to continue his journey at Selhurst Park.

With this resolute move, Crystal Palace has not only secured a prized asset but also bolstered its position ahead of the forthcoming season. The unwavering faith in Olise’s potential has been rewarded, and the Eagles can now set their sights on a promising period ahead. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports.