Published
on October 21, 2022
Former Arsenal striker, Kevin Campbell has advised midfielder, Albert Sambi Lokonga that he may have to leave the Gunners in the upcoming transfer window if he wants to be a first-team starter.
According to Campbell, Lokonga is currently not starting for Arsenal because of midfielder, Granit Xhaka’s impressive form so far this season.
Arsenal are currently on top of the Premier League table with 27 points from 10 games.
Xhaka and Thomas Partey have played in most minutes from midfield this season, while Lokonga has managed to start just two Premier League matches this season.
Despite starting three UEFA Europa League games, Lokonga has expressed his displeasure at bidding his time on the substitute bench in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Lokonga told La Derniere Heure (via Evening Standard): “Honestly, it is difficult. At the end of last season, I almost snapped. I called my agent to ask him if staying at Arsenal was a good idea. He comforted me in my choice, even though I know I need to start more often to develop.”
However, speaking to Football Insider, Campbell believes Lokonga could secure a transfer elsewhere if he grows too impatient at Emirates.
He said, “There is potential for that. He may look to leave [Arsenal]. The key to everything is fit. If Sambi Lokonga wants to start, then he has to leave Arsenal because he isn’t starting right now.
“He’s a young player, though, so right now, it’s about being a valued member of the squad and improving.”
He added, “Listen, Granit Xhaka is hitting levels that we have never seen. If Xhaka is hitting those levels, the younger ones beneath him have to get up to his level. Unfortunately, Sambi is going to have to bide his time. He has to take his opportunities when they come.”
