Albert Sambi Lokonga is really struggling in an Arsenal shirt.The Belgium international initially impressed at the club after joining from Anderlecht in the summer of 2021.But Lokonga quickly fell out of favour under Mikel Arteta last season - and he hasn't recovered anything close to his best form since.Lokonga's game time in 2022/23 has been heavily restricted due to the presence of Thomas Partey, who's been one of the best midfielders in the world.Arteta even opted to start the Ghanaian in Arsenal's FA Cup fourth round tie against Manchester City, despite rotating his team heavily in other departments.However, Partey took a blow to the ribs in the first half at the Etihad and was subsequently replaced by Lokonga after the break.It was a golden opportunity for Lokonga to strut his stuff against world-class opposition, one he sadly did not take.
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 20: Albert Sambi Lokonga of Arsenal during the UEFA Europa League group A match between Arsenal FC and PSV Eindhoven at Emirates Stadium on October 20, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)The 23-year-old's defending for City's goal, scored by Nathan Ake, was poor at best and he just never got to grips with the speed of the game.Lokonga's positioning was all over the shop during his 45 minute cameo - and captain Martin Odegaard simply could not hide his frustration.The Norwegian playmaker entered the fray with only 16 minutes of normal time remaining, but that was enough time for Lokonga to wind him up.Right near the end of the match, Odegaard's anger boiled over somewhat after he had to foul a City player in order to properly correct his teammate's position.It's not often you see Odegaard like that on a football pitch...
Video: The moment Odegaard got angry with Lokonga vs Man City
It's really not looking good for Lokonga at Arsenal and nobody would be shocked if he was offloaded before next week's transfer deadline - whether that be on loan or a permanent basis.
Here's how some fans on social media have reacted to the moment involving the Belgian and Odegaard...
Lokonga also didn't help his cause after the game. He was the first Arsenal player to go down the tunnel and didn't acknowledge the 7,000 travelling fans.
The young lad was very likely just frustrated with his own performance, but ignoring supporters after a defeat is never the path to take.
Yes, even if you're in a foul mood.
Video: Lokonga went straight down the tunnel after Man City 1-0 Arsenal
Being a professional footballer is certainly not all fun and games.
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