Arsenal allowed Sambi Lokonga to join Sevilla on loan during the summer transfer window, following a season-long loan spell at Luton Town. The midfielder has dealt with recurring hamstring injuries since last season, missing over 100 days, 44 of which were after joining the La Liga side.
Since arriving in Spain, Lokonga has made five appearances for Sevilla and recently provided his first assist in their 2-0 victory over Espanyol, earning praise for his performance.
Sevilla manager García Pimienta recently spoke with Canal Sur about the 25-year-old, with his comments relayed by *El Desmarque*. The outlet reported that Pimienta has “zero doubts” about Lokonga’s quality, despite his progress being hindered by a lack of consistent play in recent seasons. The manager highlighted the midfielder’s calmness on the ball and his ability to control the pace of the game, describing Lokonga as a player who “seems to make everything easy.”
“Injuries have limited his continuity, but his recent performance showed his level. He’s 25 and has a bright future; for me, he’s an incredible player,” Pimienta said, expressing hope that Lokonga will find the consistency in Spain that he lacked in the Premier League.
Pimienta’s comments suggest Sevilla may seek to retain Lokonga beyond this season. Sevilla holds an option to buy the Belgian midfielder for €10 million, an “opportunity” they could consider if he continues to impress.
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