Sambi Lokonga joins Hamburger SV from Arsenal. The Belgian midfielder leaves England behind and takes on a fresh challenge in Germany’s top flight.
Arsenal midfielder Lokonga moves to Germany
Albert Sambi Lokonga’s football journey has been anything but dull. After leaving Anderlecht in 2021 and signing with Arsenal, the Belgian midfielder had some flashes of his potential in North London. He ended up with 39 appearances, with most of them happening from his first full season.
He also enjoyed short spells at Luton Town and Crystal Palace; during which he had one goal and three assists in 19 appearances. Although, he never had regular starts at Arsenal, each combined spell gave him more resilience and experience in the PL.
The next season had him in Spain, where Sevilla loaned him. Lokonga became a common feature in midfield playing 23 games. The club, as it turned out, avoided a shaky relegation battle as well. That year in La Liga seemed to polish his defensive work and game awareness.
Now at 25, he’s traded the pressure of English football for the Bundesliga. He has agreed to a permanent deal with Hamburger SV. A move that might finally provide him with the platform to show his potential beyond being a squad player.
A fresh start in Bundesliga
Hamburger SV is counting on Lokonga’s mixture of composure and bite in the centre of the park. The club needs stability in midfield and Lokonga ticks several boxes. He has European experience, international caps and a desire to make his mark. For the player, this move gives him a fresh start. He’s out of the shadow of Arsenal’s stacked midfield and away from the uncertainty of constant loan spells.
If things click, Lokonga could become the heartbeat of HSV’s midfield and earn himself a long-term spot in Germany. The Bundesliga has a habit of turning doubted players into key stars. The Belgian will hope he’s the next to make that leap.
Author’s Opinion:
This feels like the right step for Lokonga. Arsenal wasn’t his stage, but Hamburg might give him the rhythm and responsibility his game needs.
