Albert Sambi Lokonga is the talk of Arsenal after his performance not only against Manchester United on Sunday but also after an impressive few weeks with Luton Town. Having joined on loan on deadline day of last summer, the Belgian has had to overcome a frustrating hamstring injury before finally making his mark at Kenilworth Road.
His time at Arsenal has been challenging and after joining from Anderlecht in 2021, he was thrust into the action for a side under Mikel Arteta that was perhaps not the environment that would get the best from him. A side that needed established quality and not one to nurture a player making a huge step up.
Thrown in when a player of world-class quality like Thomas Partey left Lokonga with high expectations and a mountain to climb. His stock quickly fell and a disappointing loan under Roy Hodgson at Crystal Palace only made things worse.
Rob Edwards at Luton Town has been extremely supportive of Lokonga and the trust he’s had to play his best game has resulted in some top displays and a serious upturn in form for his side. However, the Belgian has maintained that despite struggling with the Gunners, his story is not over yet.
“I think it’s too early to say [what the future holds],” Lokonga told DH. “I haven’t had any contact with Mikel Arteta yet. I’m concentrating on Luton. We’ll talk to Arsenal at the end of the season.
“But everything will happen gradually. I still consider myself an Arsenal player. I’m appreciated there by the fans and the staff. I think I can have a future at Arsenal, but that will depend on my performances here.
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