Kenyan Striker Michael Olunga Reacts to Phillipe Coutinho’s Loan Move to Al Duhail

• Philippe Coutinho has joined Qatari side Al-Duhail for the remainder of the season
• The Brazilian’s current contract at Aston Villa runs until June 2026
• He is set to become teammates with Kenyan international Michael Olunga

Kenyan striker Michael Olunga was among the first people to react to news of Phillipe Coutinho joining Qatari side Al-Duhail on loan from Aston Villa.

There were hints that the Brazilian would not play an integral role in Unai Emery’s side this season, as he only made two substitute appearances this term.

The 31-year-old’s struggles at Villa have also been there for all to see through his persistent injuries that have followed him ever since he completed a move from Barcelona in January 2022.

At the time, Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard had high expectations for his former teammate to regain his class which saw him make a sensational £142m move to Barcelona, as per BBC.

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A persistent knee injury however kept the Brazilian from reaching his full potential at Villa, although he has had his moments at the West Midlands club, including scoring on his debut in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Manchester United.

Olunga reacts to Coutinho signing

One subplot in Coutinho’s move to Qatar is he is set to link up with Kenyan international Olunga.

Olunga, who is currently on international duty with Harambee Stars, took to social media on Friday, September 8 with a brilliant reaction to news that he would become teammates with the former Liverpool superstar.

On Twitter, he wrote, “New chef in the kitchen,”

The two players will likely be a decent duo for Al Duhail, who currently sit third in the Qatar Stars League after three matches.

Coutinho will likely make his debut for his new side on September 19, when Al Duhail compete in the AFC Champions League match against Tajikistan side Istiklol.

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Four days later, the club will be in league action against Al-Gharafa.

Harambee Stars sink Qatat

Sports Brief also reported on the Harambee Stars’ recent victory in a friendly match against Qatar.

Coached by Engin Firat, this game was another opportunity for Kenya to prepare themselves for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The national team was locked out of the ongoing 2024 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers as they were serving a ban imposed by FIFA.

Amos Nondi came off the bench to score the winner in stoppage time after a brilliant run from Michael Olunga.

Joseph Okumu had given Kenya the lead in the 20th minute, but Hassan Al-Haydos equalised for Qatar from the penalty spot 10 minutes before half-time.