Kenyan international and Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has officially joined Qatari Stars League side Al Arabi Sports Club on a two-year contract, ushering in a new phase of his storied football journey. The move follows his departure from Al Duhail SC after four remarkable seasons.
Olunga, who will wear the number 14 shirt at his new club, arrives as a free agent after the expiration of his contract with Al Duhail. His transfer ends weeks of speculation over his next move, especially after becoming one of the most prolific forwards in Qatari football.
During his time at Al Duhail, Olunga etched his name into the club’s history books. The 31-year-old striker scored an astonishing 130 goals in all competitions, making him the club’s all-time leading scorer. He was the league’s top scorer in the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons, showcasing his consistency and killer instinct in front of goal. His goals were instrumental in helping Al Duhail clinch the league title in 2023 and achieve their best-ever performance in the AFC Champions League, reaching the semi-finals.
By signing for Al Arabi, Olunga is set to follow the trail once blazed by fellow Kenyan football legend Dennis Oliech, who left a lasting legacy at the same club with 27 goals in 47 appearances between 2005 and 2007. The move not only strengthens Al Arabi’s attacking options but also symbolizes a continuation of Kenyan excellence in Qatari football.
Olunga’s career has spanned several continents and leagues, reflecting his adaptability and hunger for success. He began his professional career with Tusker FC before making a name for himself at Gor Mahia in the Kenyan Premier League. His move to Swedish club Djurgården in 2016 marked his entry into European football, where he impressed with 12 goals in his debut season.
He then made a high-profile switch to China with Guizhou Hengfeng before being loaned to LaLiga side Girona FC during the 2017/18 season. It was in Spain that he achieved a major milestone, becoming the first Kenyan and the first Girona player to score a hat-trick in LaLiga during a match against Las Palmas.
A subsequent transfer to Kashiwa Reysol in Japan proved immensely successful. There, Olunga scored 61 goals, won the J1 League MVP award, and claimed the Golden Boot title. In 2021, he moved to Al Duhail for a record fee and dominated the Qatari league over the next four seasons.
Now at Al Arabi, Olunga embarks on yet another exciting journey, carrying with him a wealth of experience and an impressive goal-scoring record. Expectations are high, but the forward has consistently proven he can rise to any challenge, and fans will be eager to see what he brings to his new team.
