Michael Olunga Speaks Out After Ending Five-Month Injury Layoff

The 32-year-old striker featured for new club Al Arabi in their Qatar Stars League opener against Shamal at the Grand Hamad Stadium in Doha on Friday, August 21, 2026.

Olunga was introduced in the 74th minute of an entertaining 2-2 draw, marking his first competitive appearance since March and bringing a difficult period of rehabilitation to an end.

The Kenyan forward took to social media after the match to reflect on his journey back to the pitch, expressing gratitude for completing what had been a demanding recovery process.

Olunga said the past five months had involved extensive waiting, hard work and rehabilitation, but added that he was grateful to once again be doing what he loves.

“5 months of waiting, working, and recovering. Blessed to be back doing what I love. 🔴⚪️🙏. The journey was long, but God's timing is always perfect. Great to be back on the pitch! 💪⚽️,” he wrote.

Olunga's road to recovery

The Al Arabi striker's injury setback occurred on March 13, when he suffered a serious pelvic problem that brought his season to an abrupt end.

He subsequently underwent surgery in Paris on April 2 in an effort to address the injury. The procedure ruled him out for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign and began a lengthy rehabilitation programme.

Olunga spent the following months undergoing physiotherapy and specialised conditioning as he worked towards regaining his fitness.

His comeback gathered momentum towards the end of July when he returned to Al Arabi's pre-season preparations in Marbella, Spain. His participation in demanding training sessions provided a major indication that he was nearing a return to competitive action.

That opportunity finally arrived in Doha, with Olunga coming off the bench for the final 16 minutes against Shamal.

Boost for Al Arabi and Kenya

Olunga's return represents an important boost for both his club and the Kenyan national team.

At Al Arabi, the striker offers experience and a proven goalscoring threat, as well as the physical presence and movement that have made him one of Kenya's most prominent forwards.

His availability is equally significant for Harambee Stars, particularly with important international fixtures on the horizon, including the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Olunga's minutes are likely to be carefully managed as he works his way back to full match fitness. Nevertheless, his appearance against Shamal represents a major milestone after a difficult five months.

For Kenya's captain, the long-awaited return has finally arrived — and he will now look to build on it as he continues his comeback.