Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga is edging closer to sealing a move to Qatari side Al-Arabi, following his high-profile departure from Al-Duhail as a free agent. Sources indicate that negotiations are at an advanced stage, with Olunga expected to sign for Al-Arabi in the coming days. The signing will end weeks of speculation about his next destination.
Olunga, 31, leaves behind a glittering legacy at Al-Duhail. He spent four and a half years at the club and rewrote their history books. The Nairobi-born striker joined the Qatari giants from Japan’s Kashiwa Reysol in January 2021. He quickly established himself as the heartbeat of their attack. An extraordinary goal-scoring record marked his tenure, 130 goals in all competitions. Making him Al-Duhail’s all-time top scorer.
The “Engineer,” as they call him, helped Al-Duhail achieve all their recent successes. He clinched two Qatar Stars League Golden Boot awards. First in his debut season with 24 goals (2021/22), and again with 22 goals in the 2022/23 campaign. Olunga also made history as the first Kenyan to win the AFC Champions League Golden Boot. He netted nine goals in just six matches. His knack for scoring in crucial matches was evident. Including a memorable four-goal haul in the final game of the 2022/23 season that secured the league title for Al-Duhail.
Should Olunga complete his move to Al-Arabi, the club would be acquiring a proven goal-scorer with a wealth of experience across top leagues in Africa, Europe, and Asia. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, coupled with his leadership on and off the pitch, would make him a valuable asset as Al-Arabi aims to challenge for domestic and continental honors.