Sambi Lokonga offers honest update on Arsenal future: 'See what happens'

Midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga will not be returning to Arsenal this summer, with the Belgian admitting that it is best for him to leave for a new challenge after his loan spell at Luton Town.

Sometimes, things just don't work out. That's the feeling when it comes to Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga.

The Belgian was signed by the Gunners back in 2021 and was thought to offer Thomas Partey some competition in Arsenal's midfield...but it never eventuated. His displays for the Gunners didn't leave fans with too much excitement, nor did they instill confidence in Mikel Arteta that he warranted more game time, and as such, was loaned out to Luton Town this season.

Injuries again played their part, limiting Lokonga to just 19 league appearances for the Hatters. Now, with his loan at Luton over, the midfielder revealed that it is best for his career to leave the Gunners and look for another club.

“For me, I had a discussion with Arsenal and the conclusion was the best thing for me was to leave the club, so now it’s up to my agent and the club to find something," Lokonga said via BBC Three Counties Radio. "I still have a contract there, one year plus a one-year option so let’s see what happens.”

With Lokonga seemingly failing to make the grade in north London, despite being signed as a long-term replacement for Partey, looking at Arsenal's midfield now, he is clearly down the pecking order.

Declan Rice and Jorginho are Arteta's first choice central pair, and with Mohamed Elneny leaving, Lokonga could follow suit.

With Arsenal wanting a partner for Rice, acquiring funds via player sales could help. With just one year plus an additional year left on Lokonga's contract, if there was a time when a move would benefit both player and club, that time is now.

While Lokonga didn't rule out a return to north London, it is clear that he doesn't see a future for himself at the Gunners, and for a player who came to the club with high hopes, the fact that it didn't work out is rather disappointing,