Vincent Kompany has highlighted the elite mentality of Michael Olise, praising the winger’s obsession with detail and even comparing his mindset to that of Kevin De Bruyne.
Speaking about Olise’s development, Kompany focused less on natural talent and more on the relentless attention to small details that separates good players from truly special ones. According to the manager, Olise’s approach to the game mirrors the habits of some of the best professionals he has worked with during his career.
“Olise is absolutely obsessed with detail,” Kompany said.
“He’ll always do things his own way.”
Kompany revealed that this level of dedication reminded him of Kevin De Bruyne, a player widely regarded as one of the most intelligent and technically refined midfielders of his generation. The comparison centered not on style, but on mindset — particularly the constant pursuit of perfection.
“That’s something I’ve seen before. I worked with Kevin De Bruyne, and he had that same obsession.”
The former defender explained that true excellence comes from mastering the fundamentals repeatedly, not just relying on flashes of brilliance. In his view, Olise’s growth is being driven by his dedication to refining the smallest aspects of his game.
“It’s not just talent,” Kompany continued.
“It’s the small things — positioning, timing, decisions… repeating it again and again.”
Kompany emphasized that Olise’s willingness to constantly analyze and improve his performances is what sets him apart from many players with similar technical ability. He believes that this hunger to refine every detail is the hallmark of future elite-level performers.
“And I see that in Michael as well. That desire to perfect everything.”
He also stressed that players with this type of mentality rarely become complacent, as their ambition drives them to push beyond their comfort zone and continually evolve.
“Players like that, they don’t settle,” Kompany added.
“They always want more, always want to improve.”
Kompany concluded by suggesting that when such dedication is paired with natural quality, the result can be extraordinary. In his eyes, Olise possesses the mindset needed to reach the very highest level of the game.
“And when you combine that mentality with his quality… you get a very special player.”
