Albert Sambi Lokonga remains a key part of Sevilla‘s plans despite his recent injury setbacks.

That’s according to Sevilla coach García Pimienta, who praised the Arsenal loanee’s qualities during a recent interview with Canal Sur, via El Desmarque. He made it clear that he values the midfielder’s skills and impact on the team, thus making a permanent deal in the summer more likely.

Albert Sambi Lokonga may have only played 306 minutes this season, but he already has a fan in his new head coach. Despite his injury challenges this season, García Pimienta has shown unwavering support for Lokonga, declaring him, “an incredible player.”

Pimienta went on to elaborate on Lokonga’s contributions, highlighting his ability to bring “calmness in the game, that pause” which allows Sevilla to maintain control during high-pressure moments. “He seems to make everything easy, he has the ability to give pause and judgment,” Pimienta said, stressing the midfielder’s composure on the pitch.

Lokonga was a starter for Sevilla in their match against Espanyol at the weekend, delivering a strong performance in the first half that caught the attention of both fans and coaching staff.

Pimienta was quick to emphasise Lokonga’s importance to the team, saying, “On top of that, he is 25 years old, he has a lot ahead of him, for me he is an incredible player.” Despite his injury struggles, Pimienta made it clear that Lokonga remains a central part of his plans when fit, calling him an “important figure” in the squad.

The Belgian midfielder’s time in Spain has been somewhat hampered by recurring injury issues, which have prevented him from gathering the consistency needed to fully demonstrate his talent.

However, Pimienta remains hopeful that Lokonga will eventually find the “continuity” that was missing during his time in the Premier League.

He noted, “Injuries have prevented him from having continuity, but the other day we saw his level.” Playing the full 90 minutes for only the second time this season, Lokonga also grabbed an assist as they won 2-0.

Sevilla’s interest in Lokonga extends beyond this season. The club currently holds an option to buy him from Arsenal next summer for just over €10m, depending on how he performs over the course of the season.

Pimienta and the Sevilla management are clearly optimistic about Lokonga’s potential, hoping that his form will warrant a permanent move. Pimienta also praised Lokonga’s attitude in training, commenting that he “works to the maximum every day” and expressed his belief that this season could be pivotal in Lokonga’s career, adding that he hopes “he will have the continuity that he has not had in the Premier League.”

Stalked by injuries, Lokonga’s progress has been hindered during his time on loan away from Arsenal over the past two seasons, but his move to Sevilla represents an opportunity for a fresh start.

Sevilla, led by Pimienta, appear determined to help Lokonga regain his form, and if he continues to perform at a high level, he may well find a long-term home in Spain.