Michael Olunga has embarked on an exciting new chapter in his career as he begins pre-season with Al Arabi in Spain. The Harambee Stars captain is looking forward to making an impact with his new club after completing a move from Al Duhail earlier this month.
Having joined the Qatari side Al Arabi following a successful four-and-a-half-year stint at Al Duhail, Olunga has wasted no time settling in. He has already linked up with his new teammates and is part of the squad currently training in Valencia, Spain, where they will spend the next few weeks preparing for the upcoming season. The team is expected to play several friendly matches, with their first encounter scheduled against Malaysian side Johor DT.
Olunga arrives at Al Arabi with a strong track record. During his time at Al Duhail, he became the club’s all-time leading scorer with 130 goals. He consistently netted 20 or more goals each season, except in his final campaign where he still managed 15 goals. Such consistency makes him a prized asset for Al Arabi, who will be hoping he can replicate that form and help them climb the table after a disappointing ninth-place finish last season in the 12-team Qatar Stars League.
The striker is no stranger to European pre-seasons, having previously spent time in Austria with Al Duhail during preparations for past seasons. His experience, leadership, and proven goal-scoring ability will be crucial as Al Arabi aims to return to its glory days, having last won the league title in 1997.
Al Arabi are set to begin their 2025-26 league campaign on August 15 with an away match against Al Wakrah. With new signings and a refreshed squad, there is renewed optimism around the team’s prospects, and Olunga is expected to play a central role in their ambitions.
As he gets down to business in Spain, Olunga will be focused on building chemistry with his new teammates and getting back to full match fitness. All eyes will be on him to lead from the front and inspire Al Arabi’s push for a much-needed revival. For Kenyan fans and the club alike, hopes are high that the experienced forward will continue his goal-scoring exploits and make a strong mark in his latest football adventure.
