Michael Olunga remains one of the most important figures in Kenyan football.
The 32-year-old striker continues to captain Harambee Stars while playing club football for Al-Arabi in Qatar. His influence also extends beyond the pitch through the Michael Olunga Football Academy, which he founded to help develop young players in Kenya. MOFA FC
His career has taken him from local Kenyan football to Sweden, Spain, Japan, and Qatar, making him one of the country’s most experienced international players.
Michael Olunga’s Journey From Kenya to International Football
Olunga’s career began at Liberty Sports Academy before he moved through Kenyan clubs, including Tusker, Thika United, and Gor Mahia.
His performances at Gor Mahia helped establish him as one of the country’s most promising strikers.
He later moved abroad, playing for Djurgårdens IF in Sweden, Girona in Spain, and Kashiwa Reysol in Japan before building a successful career in Qatar. Michael Olunga
That journey has made him one of the best-known Kenyan footballers of his generation.
Leading Harambee Stars in 2026
Olunga remains a central figure in the Kenya national team.
In September 2026, Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy named him captain in the squad for AFCON 2027 qualifiers against Eritrea and Guinea. Confédération Africaine de Football
His leadership matters as Kenya prepares for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which the country will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda.
However, injury affected his involvement during part of the 2026 international schedule.
Reports in September said he was ruled out of some Harambee Stars matches while recovering from a pelvic injury that required specialist treatment. SportPesa Blog
Michael Olunga’s Club Career at Al-Arabi
At the club level, Olunga plays for Al-Arabi SC in Qatar.
He joined the club in 2025 after leaving Al-Duhail, where he had built a strong scoring record.
His current deal with Al-Arabi runs until 2027, with an option for an additional year. Transfermarkt
Although injuries have interrupted parts of his 2026 season, he remains an experienced attacking option for the club.
His international career has also given him exposure to several different football systems, from Europe to Asia and the Middle East.
Building the Michael Olunga Football Academy
Olunga’s influence is not limited to professional football.
He is the founder and president of MOFA FC, a football development project based in Homa Bay County.
The academy structure includes youth teams and a senior side competing in the FKF National Super League. MOFA FC
MOFA was created to help young players access structured training, education, and a clearer path into professional football.
That project gives Olunga a role in developing the next generation of Kenyan players even while his own playing career continues.
Why Michael Olunga Remains Important in 2026
Olunga’s importance comes from more than goals.
He remains the captain of the national team, one of Kenya’s most experienced active professionals and a player with years of international football behind him.
His career also gives younger Kenyan players an example of how local talent can progress into competitive leagues outside the country.
At the same time, his academy work shows an effort to create opportunities for players coming behind him.
What to Watch Next
The main question for the rest of 2026 is how quickly Olunga returns to full fitness and regular action.
His experience will remain valuable to Harambee Stars as preparations continue for AFCON 2027.
For the Gen Z Gram Top 20 Kenyans 2026 editorial series, Michael Olunga takes Rank #15.
