Transfer: I was shocked with your decision – Paul Merson hits Olise for snubbing Chelsea

Arsenal legend Paul Merson has expressed his criticism of Michael Olise’s decision to reject a move to Chelsea during this summer’s transfer window. Merson admitted to being taken aback by Olise’s choice and raised concerns about the potential consequences of his decision.

Merson also drew attention to the career path of former Ivorian winger Wilfried Zaha, who opted to stay at Crystal Palace and eventually moved to Turkish club Galatasaray on a free transfer. Merson believes that Zaha’s career trajectory should have served as a cautionary tale for Olise, prompting him to reconsider his decision to turn down Chelsea’s offer.

Chelsea had activated a complex release clause in Olise’s contract and appeared poised to sign the French Under-21 international. However, Crystal Palace later announced that Olise had extended his contract with the club.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson shared his surprise, stating, “I was shocked. It might have been because he was at Chelsea before, that could have been the reason. But for me, the whole idea is to move up the ladder. Surely you’ve got to make hay while the sun shines. Form can come and go very quickly with a couple of bad games here and there.”

Merson pointed out Zaha’s situation as a cautionary example, noting, “We are talking about Zaha, eight, nine, ten months ago he was available on a free transfer. Who was going to have him? He could not go back to Man Utd; would Arsenal have him? Tottenham might take him if they don’t? All of a sudden, no disrespect, he is playing at Galatasaray in the Turkish league, and you are quite shocked.”

Merson concluded by expressing his hope that Olise has made the right decision for his career and future prospects.