Michael Olunga, the captain of Harambee Stars, has become an iconic figure in Qatar’s football scene, achieving remarkable success with Al Duhail. He has shared insights into the rapid development of football in Qatar, attributing it to significant investments in infrastructure and strategic growth initiatives. These efforts have positioned Qatar as a football powerhouse, marked by their successful defense of the AFC Asian Cup in 2024 and their hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Olunga has cemented his legacy in the Qatar Stars League (QSL), becoming Al Duhail’s all-time leading scorer with an impressive 121 goals. This milestone was achieved during a dominant performance against Al Shamal, where Al Duhail secured a 6-2 victory. Since joining the club in 2021, Olunga has consistently demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess, winning consecutive Golden Boots and leading the team to a league title in the 2022-2023 season. His contributions continue to drive Al Duhail’s success in the current campaign, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most lethal strikers.
Olunga’s football journey began in Kenya, where he developed his skills at Tusker FC and Gor Mahia. His talent quickly attracted international attention, leading him to play in Sweden, China, and Japan. A standout moment in his career came during his time in Japan’s J1 League, where he won the Golden Boot in 2020 by scoring 28 goals in 32 matches for Kashiwa Reysol. His move to Qatar marked another successful chapter, with his debut season at Al Duhail yielding 24 goals and earning him the prestigious Mansour Muftah Award. He followed this with another stellar season, scoring 22 goals to help secure a league championship.
Reflecting on Qatar’s football evolution, Olunga praised the nation’s commitment to building a strong footballing foundation. He highlighted the importance of infrastructure in attracting top-tier talent, which has elevated the quality of the league and fostered the development of local players. This blend of international stars and homegrown talent has significantly boosted the competitiveness of football in the region.
Olunga also acknowledged the growing competitiveness of neighboring countries like Jordan, Iraq, and Iran, attributing this progress to similar investments in football development. He emphasized the importance of Qatari players gaining exposure to high-pressure international competitions to further enhance their skills and prepare them for the demands of elite football.
As a leader both on and off the pitch, Olunga embraces the responsibility of setting an example for his teammates and aspiring players. He believes in the power of mentorship and the lasting impact of creating a pathway for future generations. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Olunga remains optimistic about the direction of football in Qatar and the broader region.
His contributions extend beyond his club, as he continues to play a pivotal role for the Kenyan national team. Olunga’s dedication, leadership, and vision for the future serve as an inspiration to many, highlighting the transformative power of football in uniting and uplifting communities.
