Excluded from AC Milan’s professional squad by Massimiliano Allegri, Ismaël Bennacer had to wait several months without playing before finding a favorable solution this summer. After failed interests from Italian clubs like Juventus and Bologna, as well as a rejected offer from Trabzonspor, the Algerian international midfielder finally secured a one-year loan to the Croatian club GNK Dinamo Zagreb, with an option to buy. This move ends a period of uncertainty and offers a fresh start for Bennacer, who aims to revive his career after a difficult year.
Dinamo Zagreb officially announced the signing, stating that Bennacer would undergo a medical exam in Zagreb before the contract is fully finalized. This loan will allow him to quickly join an ambitious squad, as Dinamo seeks to strengthen its midfield for national and European competitions. The Croatian club praised Bennacer’s experience, highlighting his 137 appearances with Milan in Serie A and continental tournaments, as well as his standout performances in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. This recruitment is seen as a real asset for Zagreb’s squad.
In the 2024-2025 season, Bennacer was also loaned to Olympique de Marseille where he distinguished himself as one of Ligue 1’s best players in the first half of the season. However, that stint was not enough to convince AC Milan to reintegrate him into their main squad. Dinamo Zagreb will cover about 40% of his salary during this loan, with no loan fee, signaling their strong commitment to this acquisition.
This operation could mark a new chapter in Ismaël Bennacer’s career, who is often recognized for his technique and game vision but was recently held back by tactical choices and injuries. The Croatian club counts on his experience in top leagues to reinforce its midfield and aim for significant success in its competitions. For Bennacer, this is an opportunity for a fresh start and the regular playing time necessary to regain his best form and maintain his place in the Algerian national team.