Olise and Raphinha Took Different Routes to the Top

It is remarkable to look at the careers of Michael Olise and Raphinha and remember that both players once represented clubs outside Europe's traditional elite.

Olise developed into a Premier League standout at Crystal Palace before making the move to Bayern Munich in July 2024. Bayern's official profile confirms that he spent three seasons with Palace before joining the German champions.

The French winger has since established himself in Munich. He was named Bayern's Player of the Season in both his first two campaigns at the club, while also being named Bundesliga Player of the Season for 2025/26.

Raphinha took a different route.

The Brazilian joined Leeds United from Rennes in 2020 and became one of the club's most important players during their battle to remain in the Premier League. Leeds confirms that he played a major role in helping the club avoid relegation during the 2021/22 campaign.

His performances earned him a move to Barcelona in 2022, where his influence has continued to grow. Barcelona's official profile records three La Liga titles for Raphinha, while his 2024/25 season produced 34 goals and 22 assists according to the club's current player page.

The contrast makes their journeys particularly interesting.

Neither player needed to begin his senior career at a European superclub to reach the highest level. Olise used his time at Palace to earn a move to Bayern, while Raphinha's performances at Leeds helped earn him a place at Barcelona.

Their stories are also a reminder that the path to the top of European football is not always straightforward.

From Selhurst Park to Munich and from Elland Road to Barcelona, both players took a less conventional route before establishing themselves among the elite names in European football.