FOOTBALL
Sportsbeat Correspondent 5 hrs ago

Olunga ruled out for the season after undergoing surgery

Al-Arabi and Harambee Stars forward Michael Olunga. [Courtesy Al-Arabi]

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has suffered a major setback after being ruled out for the rest of the season following a serious injury in Qatar.

The Kenyan striker will be sidelined for up to eight weeks after his club, Al-Arabi, confirmed he underwent successful surgery for a pelvic injury in Paris, France. This means Olunga will not return to action before the end of the Qatar Stars League season later this month.

Olunga had already missed Kenya’s recent FIFA Series matches due to the injury, raising concern about his fitness. The latest update now confirms that his campaign has been cut short.

In a statement, Al-Arabi said the forward will begin a rehabilitation program under the supervision of the club’s medical team as he works towards full recovery.

The injury comes as a big blow for both club and country. Olunga has featured in 17 matches this season, scoring seven goals and providing two assists. However, this has been one of his less productive seasons compared to his previous years in Qatar.

The former Al-Duhail striker has also struggled with injuries in recent seasons, and this latest setback adds to his challenges.

Olunga last played on March 13, when he featured for just 37 minutes in a 1-1 draw against Al-Ahli before being forced off.

Despite the disappointment, the 31-year-old will now focus on recovery, hoping to return stronger ahead of the 2026/27 season, where he is expected to play a key role for both Al-Arabi and Harambee Stars.