Michael Olunga Unveiled at Al Arabi After Leaving Al Duhail
Michael Olunga has officially joined Qatari side Al Arabi SC. The Kenyan striker was unveiled today after parting ways with rivals Al Duhail.
The 31-year-old signed a two-year deal, with an option for a third, marking a new chapter in his career. Sources close to the deal estimate the transfer to be worth around €6 million (KSh 1 billion).
Olunga had been a free agent after leaving Al Duhail in May 2025. He departed as the club’s all-time top scorer, with 130 goals in just over three years.
From Nairobi to Qatar – A Remarkable Journey of Michael Olunga
Olunga’s football story began at Liberty Sports Academy in Nairobi. His raw talent soon earned him moves to Kenyan Premier League clubs Tusker, Thika United, and Gor Mahia.
At Gor Mahia, he scored 19 league goals in 2015, helping the team go unbeaten and win the title. His exploits caught international attention.
In 2016, he joined Sweden’s Djurgårdens IF. He scored 12 goals in one season and became a fan favorite.
A move to China followed, with Guizhou Zhicheng. But it was his loan to Spain’s Girona that made headlines — he scored a hat-trick in just 22 minutes, becoming the first Kenyan to do so in La Liga.
He then moved to Japan’s Kashiwa Reysol, where he dominated the J1 League. In 2020, he won the Golden Boot with 28 goals and was named league MVP.
In 2021, Olunga moved to Al Duhail, where he continued his scoring streak and lifted multiple domestic titles.
What Al Arabi Gains from Michael Olunga’s Move
Al Arabi are getting a forward in peak form. Olunga brings speed, power, aerial strength, and a proven scoring record. His experience in five leagues makes him one of Africa’s most seasoned strikers.
He is expected to lead the line and help the club push for league and continental honors.
Investing in Kenya’s Football Future
Off the pitch, Olunga is building a modern stadium for his Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) in Homa Bay.
The facility includes full-size pitches, a gym, and player housing. It also features advanced turf, drainage systems, and underground sprinklers.
Construction is already 60% complete. Once done, it will be one of the most advanced football academies in East Africa.
Olunga has said he wants the stadium to support talent across all 47 counties in Kenya.
