Algeria midfielder Ismaël Bennacer has admitted he is struggling to understand why he was left out of the national team squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations by head coach Vladimir Petkovic.
The experienced midfielder was omitted from Algeria’s training camp squad scheduled to take place from 25 to 31 May at the Sidi Moussa National Technical Centre, a decision that has sparked major debate among supporters.
Bennacer, who has earned 56 caps for Algeria and played a significant role during the country’s victorious 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign, said he felt physically ready and capable of contributing to the national side despite injury setbacks earlier in the year.
Speaking to La Gazette du Fennec, the former AC Milan midfielder explained that he had worked hard to recover his fitness and believed he was returning to his best form.
“It’s true that I had an injury at the beginning of the year, and I understand that it might be part of the discussions. But today, I feel good, 100%. I was coming back very well, I was starting to play more minutes, regaining my best form and feeling better and better on the pitch.”
The 28-year-old did not hide his disappointment over missing out on the squad, especially with the World Cup representing one of the biggest ambitions of his career.
“So yes, of course, I’m disappointed not to have been called up, because I felt ready. But in any case, I continue to work and train on my own. I remain available to the coach if he needs me.”
Bennacer also reflected on the emotional importance of representing Algeria and revealed that appearing at the World Cup had long been a personal dream.
“It’s a dream. I’ve always dreamed of playing in a World Cup with my country. This jersey means so much to me. From day one, I’ve always given everything for the national team, both on and off the pitch.”
The midfielder said the pain of Algeria missing qualification for the 2022 World Cup had made the 2026 tournament an even bigger objective for him personally.
“After the 2022 World Cup, which slipped through our fingers, this 2026 World Cup inevitably had a special flavor. It was something I had in mind, a very strong objective. I wanted to be there, to help the team, to defend our colors and to bring my experience to the group.”
Bennacer admitted he still finds the decision difficult to understand.
“I’m not going to lie, I’m baffled. When you feel good physically, you’re working hard, you’re getting back to a good level, and you’ve had this World Cup dream with your country for years, it’s obviously hard to accept.”
Despite the frustration, the Algerian international insisted he respects the coach’s authority and remains focused on regaining his place in the squad.
“I respect the choices that have been made. I know football, I know that these are decisions that belong to the coach. For my part, I remain focused on what I control: continuing to work, keeping up my rhythm and maintaining my fitness. As long as there is an opportunity, I will be ready to step up.”
Bennacer also argued that his experience could still offer important value to the Algerian squad during major tournaments.
“Yes, of course. I sincerely believe I can still bring my qualities, my experience, and my background to the group. I can help on the pitch but also off it. In a major competition, experience, mindset, and the ability to handle crucial moments are extremely important.”
The midfielder concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the national team despite the disappointment of the omission.
“Today, I’m fit, I feel good and capable of helping the team. I respect the choices that have been made, but naturally, when you’re available, when you’ve always been there for your country and you think you can contribute something to the group, it’s a frustrating situation.”
