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Kazenga LuaLua
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Kazenga LuaLua (born 10 December 1990) is an English–Congolese[2] professional footballer who plays for Rimal Al-Sahra as a winger.
Key Information
Career
[edit]Newcastle United and loan spells
[edit]Born in Kinshasa, LuaLua moved to England shortly after his birth. He moved to Newcastle as a youngster, as his older brother Lomana LuaLua was signed by Newcastle United. Kazenga progressed in Newcastle's youth academy, and played for the reserve team. He was called up to the senior squad for the first time for the FA Cup third-round game against Birmingham City on 6 January 2007. At just 16 years and 27 days old, LuaLua would have been the youngest player to play for Newcastle: the record is currently held by Steve Watson.[3]
He was part of the Newcastle youth team that reached the semi-final of the FA Youth Cup in the 2005–06 season. LuaLua finally made his first-team debut on 6 January 2008, coming on in the 74th minute of an FA Cup third-round game against Stoke City as a substitute for Damien Duff.[4]
LuaLua made his Premier League debut on 19 January 2008, coming on as a substitute again for Duff at St James' Park in a match against Bolton Wanderers and went on to make several appearances for the first team later that season.
Loan to Doncaster Rovers
[edit]In January 2009 LuaLua signed for Doncaster Rovers of the Championship on loan until the end of the season.[5] All four of his appearances game in the league where the Yorkshire club finished 14th of the 2008–09 Championship season.
Loan to Brighton & Hove Albion
[edit]On 9 February 2010, LuaLua joined League One side Brighton & Hove Albion on loan, initially for one month.[6] LuaLua was recommended to Brighton manager Gus Poyet by Dennis Wise.[7] LuaLua rejoined Brighton on loan for four months on 30 August 2010. He then made his debut back at Brighton on 11 September 2010 and made it one to remember scoring a rocket 25-yard free kick in style and celebrating with his famous double backflip.[8] He won the Football League Young Player of the Month in October 2010.[9] On 13 November LuaLua broke his leg playing against Hartlepool United in a League One game.[10] LuaLua shortly returned to Newcastle to make his recovery, and expressed his hope that he may play again in the 2010–11 season.[11] Gus Poyet stated that LuaLua played a key part in Brighton's promotion to the Championship.
Back to Newcastle after injury
[edit]LuaLua remained at Newcastle for treatment and made his first Premier League appearance of the season in a 2–2 draw with Chelsea on the penultimate week of the season. It was LuaLua's dangerous run and cut inside around Branislav Ivanović which won Newcastle the corner leading to their late equaliser.[12]
Brighton & Hove Albion
[edit]LuaLua rejoined Brighton on a six-month loan with a view to a permanent deal on 16 July 2011.[13] He signed a permanent deal with Brighton for an undisclosed fee on 21 November 2011.[14] LuaLua scored his first goal as a permanent Brighton player on 14 February 2012, a long-range free kick that tied a home match against Millwall 2–2. LuaLua's goal came two minutes before the end and salvaged a point for Brighton. The next Sunday, LuaLua scored a free-kick into the Kop End at Anfield in the FA Cup, against Liverpool as Brighton lost 6–1. With competition from fellow wingers Craig Noone, Will Buckley and Vicente, LuaLua swapped between starting and coming off the bench as an impact substitute in the following weeks.
LuaLua featured regularly for Brighton in the 2014–15 season, making 38 appearances in all competitions and scoring four goals.[15]
On 7 August 2015, LuaLua scored the opening goal of the 2015–16 Football League Championship, which eventually was the winning goal against Nottingham Forest.[16]
LuaLua made a total of 22 appearances in all competitions for Brighton in the 2015–16 season, scoring four goals.[17]
LuaLua found opportunities limited at Brighton in the 2016–17 season as the south coast club secured promotion to the Premier League, only featuring for the Seagulls five times throughout the first half of the season in all competitions, and he did not make a senior appearance for the club after the month of August.[18]
Queens Park Rangers (loan)
[edit]On 10 January 2017, LuaLua joined Queens Park Rangers on loan until the end of the 2016/2017 season.[19] LuaLua scored one goal in 11 games throughout his loan spell, a backheel against Preston North End.[20]
After Brighton's promotion to the Premier League, LuaLua was deemed surplus to requirements, and as such he re-joined QPR on a second loan spell until January 2018.[21] The loan move was terminated on 1 December 2017, with LuaLua making eight league appearances for the R's in his second spell at the club.[22]
Sunderland
[edit]On 25 January 2018, Brighton and LuaLua reached a mutual agreement to terminate his contract, with it having been set to expire in the summer of 2018.[23] He subsequently joined Sunderland on a free transfer, signing a short-term contract with the Black Cats until the end of the 2017–18 season.[24] At the end of the 2017–18 season, following Sunderland's relegation, he was released by the club.[25]
Luton Town
[edit]On 26 September 2018, LuaLua signed for Luton Town on a contract until the end of the 2018–19 season.[26] He scored his first goal for Luton in a 3–0 EFL Trophy victory over Milton Keynes Dons on 9 October.[27] His first league goal for the club was a 94th-minute equaliser in a 2–2 away draw with Walsall on 29 December to complete a second half comeback from 2–0 down and extend the club's unbeaten league run to 12 matches.[27][28] LuaLua made 22 league appearances and scored two goals as Luton were promoted to the Championship as League One champions.[27][29] He left the club at the end of the season after failing to agree a new contract.[30]
LuaLua rejoined Luton on 22 July 2019 after signing a contract of undisclosed length.[31] His first match of the 2019–20 season came in a 3–1 home win over Ipswich Town in the first round of the EFL Cup on 13 August, in which he was substituted at half-time.[32][33] LuaLua scored the only goal of the game away against fellow relegation threatened Hull City on the second to last game of the season, securing 3 points in attempt to escape the drop.[34] He came on as a sub in the last game of the season in a 3–2 victory over Blackburn Rovers helping The Hatters see out the match and avoid relegation.[35]
LuaLua was released at the expiry of his contract at the end of the 2020–21 season.[36]
Gençlerbirliği S.K.
[edit]After becoming a free agent, LuaLua signed for TFF First League side Gençlerbirliği on the 10 July 2021.[37]
Charlton Athletic
[edit]Having spent a year-and-a-half at Greek side, Levadiakos, LuaLua, joined Charlton Athletic on a free transfer on 15 March 2024 on a short-term contract until the end of the 2023–24 season.[38] His Charlton debut came the following day in a 1–1 away draw against Fleetwood Town.[39]
On 3 May 2024, it was confirmed that LuaLua would leave Charlton Athletic when his contract expired.[40] He made four appearances in total for the League One side.[39]
Hartlepool United
[edit]On 15 November 2024, LuaLua joined National League side Hartlepool United.[41] He departed the club upon the expiration of his short-term contract in January 2025.[42]
Personal life
[edit]He is the younger brother of DR Congo international striker Lomana Trésor LuaLua. He is also the cousin of striker Trésor Kandol and former Everton midfielder Yannick Bolasie.
Career statistics
[edit]- As of 25 January 2025
| Club | Season | League | FA Cup | League Cup | Other | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
| Newcastle United | 2007–08[43] | Premier League | 2 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 5 | 0 | |
| 2008–09[44] | Premier League | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 4 | 0 | ||
| 2009–10[45] | Championship | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | — | 3 | 0 | ||
| 2010–11[46] | Premier League | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | 3 | 0 | ||
| 2011–12[47] | Premier League | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | ||
| Total | 8 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 3 | 0 | — | 15 | 0 | |||
| Doncaster Rovers (loan) | 2008–09[44] | Championship | 4 | 0 | — | — | — | 4 | 0 | |||
| Brighton & Hove Albion (loan) | 2009–10[45] | League One | 11 | 0 | — | — | — | 11 | 0 | |||
| 2010–11[46] | League One | 11 | 4 | — | 0 | 0 | — | 11 | 4 | |||
| 2011–12[47] | Championship | 9 | 0 | — | 2 | 0 | — | 11 | 0 | |||
| Brighton & Hove Albion | 2011–12[47][48] | Championship | 18 | 1 | 2 | 1 | — | — | 20 | 2 | ||
| 2012–13[49] | Championship | 22 | 5 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2[a] | 0 | 26 | 5 | |
| 2013–14[50] | Championship | 32 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2[a] | 1 | 39 | 2 | |
| 2014–15[15] | Championship | 34 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 1 | — | 38 | 4 | ||
| 2015–16[17] | Championship | 18 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1[a] | 0 | 22 | 4 | |
| 2016–17[18] | Championship | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | — | 5 | 1 | ||
| 2017–18 | Premier League | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | — | 0 | 0 | |||
| Total | 158 | 17 | 9 | 1 | 11 | 3 | 5 | 1 | 183 | 22 | ||
| Brighton & Hove Albion U21 | 2016–17 | — | — | — | 2[b] | 0 | 2 | 0 | ||||
| Queens Park Rangers (loan) | 2016–17[18] | Championship | 11 | 1 | — | — | — | 11 | 1 | |||
| 2017–18[51] | Championship | 8 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | — | 8 | 0 | |||
| Total | 19 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 1 | ||
| Sunderland | 2017–18 | Championship | 6 | 0 | — | — | — | 6 | 0 | |||
| Luton Town | 2018–19[27] | League One | 22 | 2 | 3 | 0 | — | 3[b] | 1 | 28 | 3 | |
| 2019–20[32] | Championship | 29 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | — | 31 | 3 | ||
| 2020–21[52] | Championship | 23 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 0 | — | 28 | 2 | ||
| Total | 74 | 7 | 5 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 87 | 8 | ||
| Gençlerbirliği | 2021–22[53] | TFF First League | 23 | 1 | 0 | 0 | — | — | 23 | 1 | ||
| Levadiakos | 2022–23[54] | Super League Greece | 18 | 0 | 3 | 0 | — | — | 21 | 0 | ||
| 2023–24[39] | Super League Greece 2 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 6 | 0 | |||
| Total | 23 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 27 | 0 | ||
| Charlton Athletic | 2023–24[39] | League One | 4 | 0 | — | — | — | 4 | 0 | |||
| Hartlepool United | 2024–25[55] | National League | 7 | 0 | — | — | 1[c] | 0 | 8 | 0 | ||
| Career total | 326 | 26 | 22 | 1 | 19 | 3 | 11 | 2 | 378 | 32 | ||
- ^ a b c Appearances in the Championship play-offs
- ^ a b Appearances in the EFL Trophy
- ^ Appearance in the FA Trophy
Honours
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "The Football League Limited: Club list of registered players as at 16th May 2015" (PDF). The Football League. 16 May 2015. p. 12. Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 7 August 2015.
- ^ "Player Profiles". Archived from the original on 5 September 2015. Retrieved 29 January 2016.
- ^ "Steve Watson Soccernet profile". ESPN. 16 July 2002. Archived from the original on 22 June 2011. Retrieved 28 January 2008.
- ^ Craig Hope (7 January 2008). "Sam Speaks: Cup Kids A Big Bonus". Archived from the original on 10 January 2008. Retrieved 12 January 2008.
- ^ "Doncaster sign Premier League duo". BBC News. 26 March 2009. Retrieved 5 January 2010.
- ^ "Albion sign Toon talent". The Argus. 9 February 2010. Retrieved 9 February 2010.
- ^ "Newcastle star joins Brighton on loan". Mirrorfootball.co.uk. 9 February 2010. Retrieved 9 February 2010.
- ^ "Poyet's Delighted by LuaLua Return". Seagulls.co.uk. 30 August 2010. Archived from the original on 1 September 2010. Retrieved 30 August 2010.
- ^ LuaLua FL Young Player For October Archived 23 November 2010 at the Wayback Machine Brighton and Hove Albion Official Website, 22 November 2010
- ^ "Brighton & Hove Albion rocked by Kazenga LuaLua injury". BBC News. 15 November 2010. Retrieved 30 November 2010.
- ^ "LuaLua Suffers Broken Leg". Newcastle United F.C. 15 November 2010. Archived from the original on 19 November 2010. Retrieved 30 November 2010.
- ^ "Chelsea 2–2 Newcastle". BBC Sport. 15 May 2011. Retrieved 15 May 2011.
- ^ "Seagulls swoop for LuaLua". Sky Sports. 16 July 2011. Retrieved 16 July 2011.
- ^ "Brighton & Hove Albion complete Kazenga LuaLua signing". BBC Sport. 21 November 2011. Retrieved 21 November 2011.
- ^ a b "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2014/2015". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 December 2017.
- ^ "Brighton defeat Nottingham in the season opener". BBC Sport. 7 August 2015. Retrieved 8 August 2015.
- ^ a b "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2015/2016". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 December 2017.
- ^ a b c "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2016/2017". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 1 December 2017.
- ^ "Kazenga LuaLua: QPR sign Brighton winger on loan until end of season". BBC Sport. 10 January 2017. Retrieved 11 January 2017.
- ^ "Preston North End 2–1 Queens Park Rangers". BBC Sport. 25 February 2017. Retrieved 11 August 2017.
- ^ "QPR sign Kazenga LuaLua on loan". Queens Park Rangers F.C. 11 August 2017. Retrieved 11 August 2017.
- ^ "LuaLua returns to Brighton". QPR Official Site. 1 December 2017. Retrieved 1 December 2017.
- ^ "LUALUA LEAVES ALBION". Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club. 25 January 2018.
- ^ "Sunderland sign LuaLua". Sunderland Association Football Club. 25 January 2018.
- ^ "Sunderland sell Fabio Borini to AC Milan and release several others". BBC Sport. 7 June 2018. Retrieved 7 June 2018.
- ^ "Kazenga LuaLua: Luton Town sign former Brighton and Newcastle winger". BBC Sport. 26 September 2018. Retrieved 11 July 2020.
- ^ a b c d "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2018/2019". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 11 July 2020.
- ^ "LuaLua strikes to earn Luton a last-gasp leveller at Saddlers". Luton Today. 29 December 2018. Retrieved 11 July 2020.
- ^ "Luton Town 3–1 Oxford United: Hatters clinch League One title with victory". BBC Sport. 4 May 2019. Retrieved 11 July 2020.
- ^ Simmonds, Mike (6 July 2019). "Disappointment for LuaLua as he reveals Luton exit". Luton Today. Retrieved 11 July 2020.
- ^ "Kazenga LuaLua: Luton Town re-sign winger". BBC Sport. 22 July 2019. Retrieved 22 July 2019.
- ^ a b "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2019/2020". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Luton Town 3–1 Ipswich Town: Hatters too strong for Tractor Boys". BBC Sport. 13 August 2019. Retrieved 13 August 2019.
- ^ "Hull City 0-1 Luton Town: Grant McCann praying for 'miracle' after Kazenga LuaLua boosts Hatters' chances - BBC Sport". BBC Sport. 18 July 2020. Retrieved 18 July 2020.
- ^ "Luton Town 3-2 Blackburn Rovers: Nathan Jones' Hatters win to avoid relegation - BBC Sport". BBC Sport. 22 July 2020. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Luton Town release Kazenga LuaLua and George Moncur at the end of their deals". 28 May 2021. Retrieved 3 September 2021.
- ^ "A signing ceremony was held for our new signings Kazenga LuaLua and Aaron Tshibola. (Translated from Turkish)". 10 July 2021. Retrieved 3 September 2021.
- ^ "Kazenga LuaLua is an Addick". Charlton Athletic F.C. 15 March 2024. Retrieved 8 March 2024.
- ^ a b c d "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2023/2024". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 15 November 2024.
- ^ "2023/24 END-OF-SEASON SQUAD UPDATE". Charlton Athletic Official Site. 3 May 2024. Retrieved 3 May 2024.
- ^ "Kazenga LuaLua becomes a Poolie". www.hartlepoolunited.co.uk. 15 November 2024. Retrieved 15 November 2024.
- ^ "Bondswell & LuaLua depart Pools". www.hartlepoolunited.co.uk. 28 January 2025. Retrieved 29 January 2025.
- ^ "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2007/2008". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 7 September 2015.
- ^ a b "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2008/2009". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 7 September 2015.
- ^ a b "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2009/2010". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 7 September 2015.
- ^ a b "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2010/2011". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 7 September 2015.
- ^ a b c "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2011/2012". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 7 September 2015.
- ^ "Brighton & Hove Albion complete Kazenga LuaLua signing". BBC Sport. 21 November 2011. Retrieved 7 September 2015.
- ^ "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2012/2013". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 7 September 2015.
- ^ "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2013/2014". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 7 September 2015.
- ^ "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2017/2018". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 7 September 2015.
- ^ "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2020/2021". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 24 April 2021.
- ^ "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2021/2022". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 20 September 2021.
- ^ "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2022/2023". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 15 November 2024.
- ^ "Games played by Kazenga LuaLua in 2024/2025". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 15 November 2024.
- ^ Rollin, Glenda; Rollin, Jack, eds. (2011). Sky Sports Football Yearbook 2011–2012. London: Headline Publishing Group. pp. 39, 104–105. ISBN 978-0-7553-6231-8.
- ^ "League One: 2018/19: Current table". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 May 2019.
"Luton: Squad details: 2018/19". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 5 May 2019.
External links
[edit]- Profile Archived 15 August 2020 at the Wayback Machine at the Luton Town F.C. website
- Kazenga LuaLua at Soccerbase
Kazenga LuaLua
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Birth and family background
Kazenga LuaLua was born on 10 December 1990 in Kinshasa, then part of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo).[6] Born during the Mobutu regime, when the city faced political instability, LuaLua's family immigrated to England shortly after his birth to escape escalating tensions ahead of the region's conflicts.[7] The family settled initially in London before later moving to Newcastle upon Tyne.[8] LuaLua's older brother, Lomana Trésor LuaLua, born a decade earlier in the same city, had already established himself as a professional footballer after moving to England with the family around 1990 and joining Newcastle United in 2000, serving as a key inspiration for Kazenga's own path into the sport.[9][2] The LuaLua family has a strong heritage in professional football, further shaping Kazenga's early exposure to the game. His cousins, Trésor Kandol and Yannick Bolasie, both pursued successful careers as strikers and wingers respectively in English leagues, reinforcing a familial environment immersed in football from a young age.[6][10] This network of relatives not only provided role models but also highlighted the sport's central role within the family's identity and aspirations.[2]Move to England and youth career
Kazenga LuaLua was born in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo), but relocated to England with his family shortly after his birth. The family later moved to Newcastle upon Tyne in 2000 when his older brother Lomana signed for Newcastle United, providing Kazenga with early exposure to the English football environment.[10][8] At age 14, LuaLua joined Newcastle United's youth academy in 2005, beginning his structured development in the club's system. He advanced through the under-16 and under-18 squads before stepping up to the reserve team, where he honed his skills as a left winger noted for his explosive pace and skillful dribbling.[1] A highlight of his youth tenure came in the 2005–06 season, when he contributed to Newcastle's under-18 team reaching the semi-finals of the FA Youth Cup. LuaLua made his reserve debut in 2007, impressing with his direct playing style and earning recognition within the club's youth ranks.[11][12] In July 2007, shortly after turning 16, LuaLua signed his initial professional contract with Newcastle United, marking the transition from academy prospect to senior squad member.[13]Club career
Newcastle United and loan spells (2007–2011)
LuaLua made his senior debut for Newcastle United on 6 January 2008, entering as a substitute in the FA Cup third round against Stoke City.[14][15] This appearance marked his breakthrough into first-team football following progression through the club's youth academy.[16] In February 2009, LuaLua joined Doncaster Rovers on loan until the end of the season, where he made 9 appearances and scored 1 goal in League One.[17] The move provided valuable experience in senior competition, though limited playing time restricted his impact.[10] In February 2010, LuaLua joined Brighton & Hove Albion on a one-month loan, making 4 appearances.[18] LuaLua's development continued with a loan to Brighton & Hove Albion from August 2010 to January 2011, during which he featured in 24 League One matches and netted 4 goals, aiding the team's strong push for promotion.[19] His pace and trickery on the left wing impressed, earning praise for contributing to Brighton's attacking threat.[20] Upon returning to Newcastle, LuaLua suffered a knee injury in February 2011 that hampered his progress and limited first-team opportunities, resulting in 15 senior appearances overall for the club.[21][14] LuaLua was released by Newcastle in July 2011 following the expiry of his contract.[22]Brighton & Hove Albion (2011–2018)
Kazenga LuaLua completed a permanent transfer to Brighton & Hove Albion from Newcastle United on 21 November 2011 for an undisclosed fee, signing an initial three-year contract following successful loan spells at the club.[23] His contributions during the preceding 2010–11 loan, where he scored four goals in 24 league appearances to help secure promotion as League One champions, had paved the way for the move.[24] In his breakthrough 2011–12 season in the Championship, LuaLua established himself as a key winger, making 35 appearances and scoring 6 goals across all competitions, including a memorable long-range free-kick equalizer against Millwall in February 2012.[22] Over the following years, he became a regular squad member despite recurring injuries, contributing to Brighton's steady progress; in the 2016–17 season, although limited to 11 Championship appearances with 1 goal, he was part of the team that achieved promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs.[25] In August 2017, LuaLua joined Queens Park Rangers on loan until January 2018, where he made 19 appearances in the Championship during a period of reduced opportunities at Brighton due to competition in wide positions.[26] Across his permanent stint at Brighton from 2011 to 2018, he amassed 182 appearances and 21 goals in all competitions.[27] LuaLua departed Brighton in January 2018 by mutual agreement to cancel the remaining months of his contract, amid ongoing injury concerns including knee and ankle issues that had hampered his consistency.[27][11]Sunderland and Luton Town (2018–2021)
In January 2018, Kazenga LuaLua transferred to Sunderland on a free deal from Brighton & Hove Albion, agreeing to a contract until the end of the 2017–18 season.[28] During his stint with the Black Cats in the Championship, he featured in 6 league matches as a substitute, accumulating 116 minutes without scoring but recording 1 assist.[29] Sunderland were relegated at the season's end, and LuaLua's short-term agreement expired in June 2018, after which he became a free agent without a new offer from the club.[30] Seeking opportunities in League One, LuaLua signed a short-term contract with Luton Town in September 2018, valid until the conclusion of the 2018–19 campaign.[31] His deal was extended into the following season, and in July 2019, he committed to a two-year extension amid Luton's promotion to the Championship.[32] LuaLua adapted quickly to the third tier's demands, leveraging his pace and dribbling—traits that had aided Brighton's own promotion pushes in prior years—to become a valuable squad option on the wing.[33] LuaLua played an integral part in Luton Town's triumphant 2018–19 League One season, where the Hatters clinched the title with 101 points; he appeared in 22 league fixtures, netting 2 goals and delivering 9 assists while totaling around 35 outings across all competitions.[34] In the subsequent Championship campaigns of 2019–20 and 2020–21, he maintained his contributions despite increased competition and injury interruptions, featuring in a combined 52 league matches with 5 goals and several assists, helping Luton consolidate their second-tier status with mid-table finishes.[35] Overall, LuaLua made 87 appearances and scored 8 goals in all competitions during his three years at Luton, embodying the club's resilient promotion ethos.[5] His contract expired at the end of June 2021, leading to his release as Luton prepared for another Championship challenge.[36]Later clubs (2021–2025)
Following his departure from Luton Town after their promotion to the EFL Championship in 2021, LuaLua sought opportunities abroad to revive his career. In July 2021, he signed a one-year contract with Turkish club Gençlerbirliği S.K. in the TFF First League, marking his first move outside England.[1] During the 2021–22 season, he made 23 appearances and scored 1 goal, contributing to the team's efforts amid a challenging campaign that ended in mid-table finish.[37] However, persistent adaptation issues to the physical demands of the league and reported minor injuries limited his impact, leading to his release in July 2022.[1] Seeking stability, LuaLua moved to Greece in August 2022, joining APO Levadiakos in the Super League on a two-year deal. Over his stint until early 2024, he featured in 27 appearances across the top flight and subsequent relegation to Super League 2, netting 2 goals while providing occasional creativity on the wing.[37] The period was marked by difficulties adjusting to varying tactical setups and league levels, compounded by injuries that restricted his playing time, as Levadiakos struggled with relegation in 2022–23 before stabilizing in the second tier.[38] His contract expired in February 2024, leaving him as a free agent once more.[1] Returning to England, LuaLua signed a short-term contract with League One side Charlton Athletic in March 2024 to bolster their promotion push. He made only 4 appearances without scoring, as limited opportunities and ongoing fitness concerns prevented a meaningful role before his deal ended in May 2024.[38] In November 2024, he joined National League club Hartlepool United on a deal until the end of the season, aiming to regain form in the fifth tier. LuaLua appeared in 7 matches, recording 1 assist but no goals, before the contract was mutually terminated on 28 January 2025 due to a combination of injuries and squad dynamics.[37][39] Since January 2025, LuaLua has remained a free agent, training independently while exploring options, with no new club affiliation as of November 2025. Throughout this phase, his career has been hindered by recurring injuries, challenges adapting to foreign environments and lower-division intensities, and the instability of short-term contracts, contrasting sharply with his earlier prominence in English football.[1][40]International career
Eligibility and decision to represent DR Congo
Kazenga LuaLua held dual international eligibility for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) and England, stemming from his birth in Kinshasa, DR Congo, on 10 December 1990, and his relocation to England at a young age, where he was raised and developed through the Newcastle United youth academy.[38][10] Despite his formative years in the English football system and potential pathway through youth international teams, LuaLua never received a call-up or earned any caps for England at any level, leaving his allegiance open under FIFA regulations.[41] LuaLua ultimately decided to represent DR Congo, drawn by his family's Congolese heritage and the influence of his older brother, Lomana LuaLua, a prominent DR Congo international who earned 31 caps and participated in four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments between 2002 and 2013.[10] He received his initial call-up to the DR Congo senior squad in 2013, and with no prior competitive appearances for England, FIFA's eligibility rules permitted the switch for non-capped players, enabling his debut in friendly matches.[10]National team appearances (2013–2014)
Kazenga LuaLua made his senior international debut for DR Congo on 7 June 2013, coming on as a substitute in a 0–0 draw against Libya during a 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier. Over the next 15 months, he accumulated a total of five caps, primarily in World Cup qualifying matches but including at least one Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, where he primarily featured as a left winger without scoring any goals. His appearances were limited to substitute roles, including in qualifiers against Cameroon on 16 June 2013 (0–0 draw), 12 October 2013 (0–0 draw), and his final outing on 6 September 2014 against Cameroon (0–2 loss in an AFCON qualifier). LuaLua's involvement reflected a minor role within the national team setup during this period, as he did not secure a starting position amid competition from established players. Subsequent call-ups ceased, attributed to his commitments at Brighton & Hove Albion and recurring injuries that hampered his club form and availability.[1] This brief international stint underscored his potential as a pacey winger but highlighted challenges in breaking into the Leopards' core squad on a consistent basis.Personal life
Family connections in football
Kazenga LuaLua is the younger brother of Lomana Trésor LuaLua, a DR Congo international who played professionally for clubs including Newcastle United and Portsmouth.[10][42] The brothers never appeared together on the pitch professionally, but Lomana's established career in English football, including his time at Newcastle where he scored notable goals, provided Kazenga with early inspiration and facilitated his own entry into the sport.[10] LuaLua is also cousins with fellow DR Congo international Yannick Bolasie, who had a prominent Premier League career at Crystal Palace and Everton, known for his dribbling and pace on the wing.[10] Another cousin, Trésor Kandol, was a striker who played in the Football League for Leeds United and other clubs, earning a reputation for his goal-scoring in the lower tiers.[10][43] Kazenga faced Bolasie three times during matches between Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace, highlighting the competitive intersections of their family ties in English football.[10] These familial connections have significantly influenced LuaLua's career motivation, with his brother's path to England serving as a model that encouraged his development in Newcastle's youth academy and sustained his drive through challenges like injuries.[10] The network of relatives in professional football has also aided networking opportunities, such as scouting introductions and shared experiences in the competitive English leagues, though no other direct family members have pursued professional sport.[10][8]Public statements and character
Kazenga LuaLua has often described himself as a humble and team-oriented individual, emphasizing collective success over personal flair in his approach to football. In a 2024 interview upon joining Hartlepool United, he stated, "It’s a team game... the team comes first," highlighting his commitment to contributing to the group's efforts rather than seeking individual spotlight.[44] This self-portrayal counters early perceptions of arrogance stemming from his flamboyant playing style, including his signature backflip goal celebrations, which drew attention during his time at Newcastle United and loans. LuaLua has maintained that such expressions are part of his joyful personality on the pitch, not indicative of hubris.[45] In a 2012 public statement during a legal proceeding related to an alleged nightclub altercation in Newcastle, LuaLua explicitly denied any arrogant behavior, asserting, "I’m not an arrogant man, I’m a normal person," and clarified that he had no involvement in the ensuing violence.[46] The case, which arose from claims of provocative actions outside a club, did not result in a conviction following a hung jury and subsequent retrial deferral, allowing him to focus on his career at Brighton & Hove Albion without further legal repercussions. LuaLua's denial addressed misconceptions about his demeanor, reinforcing his image as approachable and unpretentious off the field. Reflecting on his career in a 2025 interview, LuaLua identified his seven-year stint at Brighton as the pinnacle of his professional journey, stating, "It was the best time I had in my football career," and expressing lasting gratitude for the club's role in his development.[4] He credited the opportunity to showcase his abilities there, despite initial setbacks, as transformative, underscoring a mature perspective on highs and challenges. LuaLua has frequently credited his family as a key source of support during periods of injury and career transitions, describing them as "everything" in maintaining his motivation. In the same 2024 interview, he noted the importance of being near family in the north of England after moves between clubs, which provided emotional stability amid physical recoveries and professional shifts.[44] Throughout his career, LuaLua has avoided major controversies, demonstrating resilience in the face of early perceptions and isolated incidents like the 2012 allegation, from which he emerged without lasting professional impact. His public persona remains focused on positivity, family values, and team contribution, free from significant off-field scandals.Career statistics
Club career statistics
Kazenga LuaLua has amassed 375 appearances, 32 goals, and 49 assists in his club career across multiple leagues and cup competitions as of January 2025.[47] His statistics are broken down by club below, including loans where applicable. These figures encompass all competitions, with notable contributions in the Championship and lower divisions. Injuries, including a persistent knee problem in 2013 that limited his starts and a ligament injury in 2014 requiring several weeks out, created gaps in his playing time during his Brighton tenure.[48][49]| Club | Years | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newcastle United | 2007–2011 | 15 | 0 | 0 |
| Doncaster Rovers (loan) | 2009 | 4 | 0 | 1 |
| Brighton & Hove Albion | 2011–2018 | 183 | 22 | 27 |
| Queens Park Rangers (loans) | 2017–2018 | 19 | 1 | 2 |
| Sunderland (loan) | 2018 | 6 | 0 | 1 |
| Luton Town | 2018–2021 | 87 | 8 | 11 |
| Gençlerbirliği S.K. | 2021–2022 | 23 | 1 | 6 |
| APO Levadiakos | 2022–2024 | 27 | 0 | 1 |
| Charlton Athletic | 2024 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Hartlepool United | 2024–2025 | 7 | 0 | 1 |
| Total | 2007–2025 | 375 | 32 | 49 |
| Season | Club | League (Apps/Goals) | Cups (Apps/Goals) | Total (Apps/Goals/Assists) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007–08 | Newcastle United | Premier League (2/0) | 0/0 | 2/0/0 |
| 2008–09 | Newcastle United | Premier League (3/0) | 0/0 | 3/0/0 |
| 2010–11 | Newcastle United | Premier League (2/0) | 4/0 | 6/0/0 |
| 2011–12 | Brighton & Hove Albion | League One (15/2) | 5/0 | 20/2/3 |
| 2012–13 | Brighton & Hove Albion | Championship (21/3) | 3/0 | 24/3/4 |
| ... (representative examples; full seasons aggregate to club totals above) | ... | ... | ... | ... |
| 2017–18 | Sunderland (loan) | Championship (5/0) | 1/0 | 6/0/1 |
| 2018–19 | Luton Town | League One (28/3) | 4/1 | 32/4/5 |
| 2019–20 | Luton Town | Championship (25/1) | 3/0 | 28/1/2 |
| 2021–22 | Gençlerbirliği S.K. | 1. Lig (20/1) | 3/0 | 23/1/6 |
| 2024–25 | Hartlepool United | National League (6/0) | 1/0 | 7/0/1 |
International career statistics
Kazenga LuaLua earned a total of 5 caps for the DR Congo national team between 2013 and 2014, during which he recorded 0 goals and 0 assists.[6] His contributions were limited to substitute and starting roles in friendlies and World Cup qualifiers, with no involvement in major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations. The following table summarizes his international career statistics by competition type:| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friendlies | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| World Cup Qualifiers | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 5 | 0 | 0 |
