Why Did Michael Olunga Leave Al Duhail for Al Arabi?
Michael Olunga has officially signed with Al Arabi SC, sealing a two-year contract with the Qatari side in a bold new chapter of his already remarkable football journey. The move ends his successful four-year spell with Al Duhail SC, where he left an undeniable legacy as the club’s all-time top scorer, netting an astonishing 130 goals across all competitions.
Al Arabi becomes the second Qatari club to benefit from Olunga’s services and the second home to a Kenyan footballer after Dennis Oliech, who played for the team more than 20 years ago. Olunga’s transfer signals both a strategic investment by Al Arabi and a chance for the Kenyan striker to extend his dominance in the Qatar Stars League, where his goal-scoring flair made headlines and won titles.
What Has Defined Olunga’s Career So Far?
Before his dominance in Qatar, Olunga impressed in multiple international leagues. He claimed the 2020 J1 League Golden Boot in Japan with 28 goals for Kashiwa Reysol and was also named the league’s MVP. In 2019, while still in Japan’s J2 League, he delivered another standout season by scoring 27 goals.
His European journey includes stints in Spain with Girona and Sweden with Djurgården, while in China, he represented Guizhou Heng Feng. In total, the towering striker has scored 273 goals in over 320 club appearances, a statistic that ranks him among Africa’s most reliable forwards.
What Does This Mean for Kenya’s National Team?
Though Olunga will miss the CHAN 2024 tournament, fans are hopeful that his transition to Al Arabi will maintain his rhythm and readiness for national duty. Kenya faces Gambia in their next World Cup 2026 qualifier, and the Harambee Stars will be counting on their talisman’s experience and clinical finishing to boost their campaign.
With consistency, agility, and sharp instincts, Michael Olunga continues to carry the hopes of a nation and remains a standout figure in Kenyan football. Al Arabi now joins a long list of clubs that have trusted him to lead their attacking lines.
By Yockshard Enyendi
