DOHA, Qatar — Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has officially ended his four-year tenure with Qatari top-flight side Al Duhail SC, closing a remarkable chapter in his career that saw him etch his name in the club’s history books as its all-time leading scorer.
Olunga, who joined Al Duhail in January 2021 from Japan’s Kashiwa Reysol in a blockbuster move reportedly worth nearly KSh1 billion, leaves behind an impressive legacy, having netted 130 goals across all competitions.
In a statement released on Thursday night, Al Duhail hailed the 31-year-old Kenyan forward for his professionalism, discipline, and immense contribution to the club’s success over the years.
“The management of Al-Duhail Sports Club extends its gratitude and appreciation to Kenyan striker Michael Olunga, the club’s historical goal scorer, for his outstanding contribution and exceptional performance during his career with the first team,” the club said. “Olunga has been an example of professionalism and discipline on and off the pitch. He has contributed significantly to the club’s many achievements and championships, and has left a clear mark on the club’s history through his decisive goals.”
Al Duhail also assured Olunga that the door would always remain open for him, adding, “You will always be an integral part of the Duhail family.”
Olunga took to social media shortly after the announcement to confirm his exit, posting a brief but poignant message:
“Veni, Vidi, Vici. Thank you for everything, Al Duhail. Leaving as all-time goal scorer—130 goals and memories. Thank you for the trust.”
VENI VIDI VICITHANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING @DuhailSCLEAVING AS ALL TIME GOAL SCORER 130 GOALS AND MEMORIESTHANK YOU FOR THE TRUST ✅🙏🏾
His departure comes at the end of a disappointing season for Al Duhail, who finished the 2024/25 campaign without silverware—an unusual dry spell for the Qatari powerhouse.
Olunga’s stint in Qatar solidified his status as one of Africa’s most prolific goal scorers.
Known for his aerial dominance, intelligent positioning, and clinical finishing, he played a pivotal role in Al Duhail’s domestic and continental campaigns, including multiple league and cup triumphs.
Before his Middle East move, Olunga’s star rose rapidly through stints with Tusker, Thika United, and Gor Mahia in Kenya, followed by spells in Sweden, Spain, China, and Japan.
His record-breaking 28-goal season with Kashiwa Reysol in 2020 earned him the J1 League Golden Boot and MVP award—making him the first African player to win both accolades in Japan.
As speculation mounts over his next destination, Olunga remains tight-lipped, but with his pedigree and scoring record, the former CAF Player of the Year nominee is likely to attract interest from top clubs in Europe, Asia, or even a return to Africa.
