Albert Sambi Lokonga nearing Hamburg comeback

Albert Sambi Lokonga is closing in on a return for Hamburg after rejoining team training on Wednesday following a back problem.

The midfielder missed HSV’s 5-0 defeat to Mainz but has now made significant progress ahead of Sunday’s Bundesliga trip to RB Leipzig.

Lokonga did not complete every part of the group session, yet reports indicate he is fit again and moving in the right direction. Earlier this week, the 26-year-old was still working individually in the gym as the club managed the discomfort that kept him out of the Mainz match.

His return is a timely lift for head coach Merlin Polzin, who could restore the midfielder to his starting lineup at Leipzig. Lokonga’s ability to bring calmness and control in central areas would be particularly valuable after Hamburg’s difficult outing last weekend.

Sunday’s fixture is scheduled for 15:30 local time, and the final decision will depend on how Lokonga responds during the final training sessions. However, the signs are increasingly positive that he will be available from the start.

For Hamburg, welcoming Lokonga back would add experience and composure at a crucial time. The team will hope his return can help produce a stronger response against one of the Bundesliga’s most demanding opponents.