Michael Olunga, the Harambee Stars captain and top striker, is reportedly drawing strong interest from South African giants Kaizer Chiefs, fueling speculation about a potential move to the South African Premier Division. The Kenyan international, currently playing for Al-Duhail in the Qatar Stars League, has been linked with the Chiefs as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season.
Olunga, 31, has been a key figure for both club and country. This season in the Qatar Stars League 2024/2025, he has made 19 appearances, scoring 12 goals and providing two assists, averaging 0.63 goals per 90 minutes. His goal-scoring prowess places him at the top of Al-Duhail’s scoring charts and among the league’s most effective forwards.
His career has been marked by impressive stints across multiple leagues, including Japan’s J1 League, where he scored 58 goals in 72 appearances for Kashiwa Reysol, and a season in Spain’s La Liga with Girona FC, where he netted three goals and provided an assist in 14 matches. Olunga’s versatility and finishing ability have earned him accolades such as the J-League MVP and top scorer honours, as well as league titles in Japan and Qatar.
Kenya’s head coach, Benni McCarthy, who McCarthy praised Olunga as one of the best finishers in African football and a leader on and off the pitch.
A move to Kaizer Chiefs would mark a return to African club football for Olunga and could significantly boost the Chiefs’ attacking options with his proven goal-scoring record and leadership qualities. While negotiations are yet to be finalised, the prospect of Olunga ing the South African league is generating excitement among fans eager to see the Harambee Stars captain bring his talents closer to home.