Olise, the World Cup's Number 10

The traditional number 10 has largely faded from professional football at the highest level. The convergence of defensive lines, promoting compactness and sector control, the increasing emphasis on defensive cover, and the excessive congestion of the central corridor make it almost impossible for the free expression of talent typically associated with a true number 10.

Faced with the imperative claustrophobia resulting from increasingly resilient defensive organizations, many coaches opt for players with different characteristics to orchestrate and define their attacking play. Alternatively, they relegate their number 10s to the ostracism of the wide channels, from which these players constantly seek to "escape," whether due to collective dynamics or the inherent need to thrive in their natural habitat – the central corridor.

Fortunately, some coaches understand the talent they possess and strive to integrate them into a game plan that maximizes individual quality for the benefit of the collective.

Didier Deschamps is one such coach. One might argue he has a talented generation and numerous options at his disposal. That's true. But he also has the knack for integrating Olise into the collective without stifling his individual brilliance.

While initially having a different idea, the French national team coach realized that France could be an even stronger title contender if he repositioned his attack. He moved Dembélé to the right and centralized Olise. This granted Olise freedom of movement, while these tactical positions served as his starting point.

Immediately, France's attacking play took on a new dimension. They became more dangerous, more associative in tight spaces under pressure, and more unpredictable in counter-attacking situations with numerical equality or positional advantage. They were more incisive, without sacrificing creativity or objective.

Because Olise plays football as if he's playing chess. On the spot, he discovers spaces that we, in open play, wouldn't even dream existed. He anticipates the play three moves ahead. He always has more than one option in mind. He is generous. He is the epitome of class, the image of fluidity, and the reflection of a devastating French side. Imposing. Thirsty and hungry for victories.

Olise proves that the crucial speed and intensity are those of thought and mental acuity. Because they precede execution. Because they decide and define moments. And because they separate geniuses from the rest.