Head over heart - Why Michael Olise should choose Arsenal ahead of Manchester United

Michael Olise has suffered a season of setbacks at Crystal Palace.

Whether it be the relegation fears under Roy Hodgson or the two separate stints on the sidelines with hamstring injuries, it has not been the season the French U21 international would have expected. Fortunately, despite only playing 14 matches this season, the 22-year-old remains one of the most in-demand forwards on the market.

Olise has managed seven goals and four assists to his name including one of each in the recent thumping of West Ham United in the Premier League. Unsurprisingly, transfer interest has come from the top of the Premier League with Gambling.com reporting that Arsenal and Manchester United are the joint favourites to sign him in the summer.

football.london has previously reported that Olise favours a move to United. The 22-year-old grew up a fan of the Reds and last season did not celebrate despite scoring a brilliant last-minute free-kick to equalise against them.

However, Olise cannot allow his heart to overrule his head when it comes to picking his next club. If both options are on the table, of course, he should choose the Gunners.

United are in the midst of a transition period which has lasted ten years and there are no guarantees that it will end any time soon. Yes, Sir Jim Ratcliffe is overseeing the recruitment drive this summer but it will take more than one summer to transform that club.

READ MORE: Lineker explains why Olise must be signed

READ MORE: Olise stance on United transfer

Whereas, a move to Arsenal would see him gain first-team opportunities as well as the chance to play in the Champions League. He would also not have to relocate which may seem trivial in an ever smaller world but it can have a huge effect.

When his former teammate Wilfried Zaha joined United from Palace, he struggled at a young age to cope with the demands of playing for the Reds while also living away from home. Staying in London would help Olise to keep at least one part of his life consistent while everything else changes.

Finally, a move to the Emirates Stadium is a safer choice. Mikel Arteta is settled as manager and is unlikely to leave in the foreseeable future.

Erik ten Hag, meanwhile, is under growing pressure and even if he survives the summer, there is no guarantee he will be there come Christmas. While playing for your boyhood club is a dream for many, that cannot be allowed to cloud your judgement when it comes to your career.