Michael Olunga could be a major beneficiary of Hakim Ziyech’s playmaking as Al Duhail aims to reclaim the league title.
Al Duhail striker and Kenyan international Michael Olunga has warmly welcomed former Chelsea and Galatasaray winger Hakim Ziyech to the Qatari champions following the completion of his transfer.
The club officially announced the signing on Thursday, confirming that the Moroccan international had joined from the Turkish top-flight after a one-year stint with Galatasaray.
“We are delighted to have Hakim Ziyech join the family. His vast experience and winning mentality will undoubtedly elevate our squad to new heights,” read a statement from the club’s management.
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga and new FKF boss Hussein Mohammed visited the embassy of Qatar on Wednesday in what could be a ground breaking move for Kenyan football.
The Harambee Stars captain also took to his X (formerly Twitter) account to formally welcome Ziyech, posting a simple but heartfelt message, writing, “Welcome Hakim.”
Olunga is expected to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of Ziyech’s arrival, given the Moroccan’s exceptional playmaking abilities.
As Al Duhail’s main attacking force, the Kenyan forward will likely thrive on Ziyech’s creativity and precise deliveries.
)
Everything you need to know about Michael Olunga’s illustrious journey from the Lucky Summer slums to becoming one of the best strikers in Africa and Asia.
During his time with Galatasaray, Ziyech featured in 25 matches across all competitions, scoring eight goals and providing four assists last season.
This season, before his move to Al Duhail, he had already recorded two goals and two assists in 11 appearances for the Turkish champions.
Olunga, who has been in remarkable form with 11 goals in just eight league matches, will look to capitalize on the former Ajax star’s vision and technical prowess to bolster his goal tally.
)
Harambee Stars have not played at home since September 2023, but the scheduled reopening of Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums ahead of CHAN 2024 is good news for the side, according to Olunga.
His contributions will be crucial as Al Duhail, currently leading the league with 29 points after 13 matches, aims to secure another league title.
The Qatari giants will be keen to reclaim the championship from last season’s winners, Al-Sadd, and the addition of a high-caliber player like Ziyech could be a game-changer in their title pursuit.
Related content
)
Michael Olunga has risen from humble beginnings to become Kenya’s highest-earning footballer, securing lucrative contracts across Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
)
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has expressed his unwavering commitment to Qatari club Al Duhail, giving reasons why he is not looking elsewhere at the moment.
)
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has experienced a rare league goal drought in Qatar which leaves him fighting with many other candidates for the Golden Boot.
