Algerian midfielder Ismaël Bennacer is facing increasing uncertainty over his club future and international prospects, after reports in Croatia suggested that Dinamo Zagreb are unlikely to make his move permanent from AC Milan.
The 28-year-old joined the Croatian side on loan last summer, with an option to buy, but recent developments indicate the club is no longer convinced by his performances or fitness record. This situation could have wider implications, particularly for his chances of representing Algeria at the 2026 World Cup.
Club Future in Doubt
According to reports, Dinamo Zagreb have decided against activating the purchase clause in Bennacer’s contract. Concerns have centred on a decline in form as well as recurring injury problems, which have limited his impact since arriving in Croatia.
The midfielder, who previously played for Empoli, has struggled to maintain consistency, with injuries continuing to disrupt his progress both at club level and with the Algerian national team.
Croatian outlet 24sata reported that his future is “very likely” to lie away from Dinamo Zagreb, citing his inability to meet expectations among club officials and supporters.
Persistent Injury Problems
Bennacer’s difficulties have been compounded by a series of physical setbacks. He is currently recovering from an injury sustained during the Africa Cup of Nations, which was later aggravated in a domestic league match against Osijek.
“The player, on loan to Dinamo from Milan, is still recovering from an injury he sustained in the African Cup of Nations, which was aggravated in the Osijek match in the Croatian league, causing him to miss ten matches with Dinamo.”
Although he returned to training and opted out of Algeria’s most recent international camp in order to focus on regaining fitness, further complications soon followed.
“He joined the training sessions and missed the recent Algerian national team camp , wanting to prepare optimally for the remainder of the season, but he soon suffered another setback.”
The report added: “He tore the medial collateral ligament in his knee during one of the recent training sessions. Although the injury is not serious, the club does not want to take any risks and will not rush his return.”
Financial and Tactical Considerations
Despite being on loan, Bennacer remains one of the highest-paid players at Dinamo Zagreb, with AC Milan continuing to cover part of his salary. This financial factor has also influenced the club’s thinking, particularly given the emergence of other players in his absence.
“Under these circumstances, Dynamo considered the possibility of keeping him, despite Luka Stojkovic’s emergence in his absence. Bennacer, despite being on loan, is the highest-paid player in the team, while Milan still covers part of his salary.”
The club had initially explored the possibility of negotiating a reduced transfer fee but appears to have abandoned that plan.
“Due to his frequent injuries, the club had hoped to reduce the value of buying his contract. However, it is now unlikely that this will happen.”
Transfer Interest and Next Steps
While his future in Croatia looks uncertain, Bennacer has reportedly attracted interest from clubs in the Middle East. Teams such as Al-Qadisiyah, Neom, and Al-Sadd are said to be monitoring his situation.
“Al-Qadisiyah, Neom and Al-Sadd clubs have shown interest in the Algerian player, which makes it likely that he will leave Dynamo this summer.”
These clubs, described as financially strong and ambitious, are keen to strengthen their squads in pursuit of domestic success.
World Cup Hopes Under Threat
Bennacer’s ongoing struggles could also impact his standing with the Algerian national team. With emerging talents such as Yacine Titraoui gaining prominence, competition for places has intensified.
In addition, concerns over his fitness may make coaches reluctant to include him in future squads, particularly given the risk of further injuries, as seen during the Africa Cup of Nations.
Career at a Crossroads
Bennacer now finds himself at a critical juncture. With Dinamo Zagreb seemingly ready to move on and his fitness still in question, the coming months could prove decisive in shaping both his club career and international future.
As the race towards the 2026 World Cup gathers pace, his ability to regain form and maintain fitness may ultimately determine whether he remains a key figure for Algeria or faces a gradual decline in prominence.
