Advertisement
Michael Olunga sends moving message to supporters after goal-scoring return
29th August, 2026 09:38 PM
Harambee Stars captain and Al-Arabi striker Michael Olunga has broken his silence on his gruelling five-month injury layoff, posting an emotional message following a goal-scoring return to action.
The marksman bagged a 70th-minute equaliser to rescue a point for Al-Arabi in their 1–1 draw against his former employers, Al-Duhail, on Saturday, August 29, 2026.
Road to recovery
The match marked Olunga’s second appearance since recovering from a severe pelvic discomfort that prematurely ended his 2025/26 campaign in April 2026. Following surgery in Paris and months of intensive rehabilitation, the former Gor Mahia forward made his initial return as a substitute during Al-Arabi’s Qatar Stars League opener against Al-Shamal on August 22, 2026.
Taking to social media after opening his goal account for the new season, Olunga reflected on his journey back to full fitness:
“The delay was just preparation for the comeback. Grateful for the goal, the one point, and the journey back to 100 per cent. All praise to the Almighty. Insha’Allah, many more to come,” Harambee Stars captain wrote.
The goal provides a major boost for both club and country as Al-Arabi aim to bounce back from last season’s seventh-place finish and also his international involvement as Kenya prepares for their upcoming international fixtures.
Olunga makes league return
The former Gor Mahia striker Michael Olunga made his long-awaited return to action as Al-Arabi SC kicked off their 2026/27 Qatar Stars League campaign with a draw against Al-Shamal at the Al-Thumama Stadium on Friday, August 21, 2026.
Instant impact
The hosts trailed to a 52nd-minute goal following a cagey opening half, but the striker made an immediate impact off the bench by reacting fastest to convert a loose ball inside the box following a set-piece.
The Kenyan international offered a muted celebration, jogging back to his own half while being congratulated by his teammates, before dropping to his knees in prayer as he awaited the resumption of play.
The draw leaves Cosmin Contra’s team still searching for their first league victory of the new campaign, leaving them in seventh place after two games
