Ismaël Bennacer’s stint at Olympique de Marseille is under increasing scrutiny as club officials remain undecided on whether to make his move from AC Milan permanent.
The 26-year-old Algerian midfielder, currently on loan, has yet to fully establish himself as a consistent force in the squad, casting doubt over his long-term future at the Stade Vélodrome.
A key meeting between Marseille and AC Milan is expected in the coming weeks to determine whether the Ligue 1 club will trigger the €12 million option to buy included in his loan agreement.
Despite flashes of his technical ability and composure on the ball, Bennacer has not consistently convinced Marseille’s hierarchy that he can be a central figure in their midfield rebuild.
Since his arrival, Bennacer has shown glimpses of the quality that once made him a standout performer in Serie A, particularly during Milan’s 2021–22 title-winning campaign.
However, injuries and inconsistent form have plagued his time in France, limiting his impact and raising questions about whether Marseille should commit to a long-term investment.
The uncertainty surrounding Bennacer comes at a pivotal moment for the club. After securing a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League, Marseille’s management is determined to assemble a squad that can compete at the highest level.
That ambition includes prioritising players who are not only talented but fully aligned with the club’s vision and capable of withstanding the physical and tactical demands of elite European competition.
Sources close to the club suggest that internal discussions have reflected a split in opinion. Some within the coaching staff reportedly admire Bennacer’s footballing intelligence and believe he could thrive with a more defined role. Others remain cautious, pointing to his struggle to assert dominance in key matches and concerns over his fitness record.
For Bennacer, the coming weeks could be career-defining. A return to AC Milan may offer limited opportunities, particularly given the Italian club’s midfield depth and evolving tactical setup under manager Stefano Pioli.
At the same time, remaining at Marseille would depend on a renewed vote of confidence and a willingness from both parties to commit to a more stable and integrated future.
The situation is further complicated by Marseille’s broader transfer strategy. With Champions League football secured, the club intends to reinforce several key positions over the summer.
Midfield remains an area of focus, and Bennacer’s fate may be influenced by who becomes available on the market and whether Marseille can secure other targets who better fit their evolving style of play.
As the club prepares for crucial transfer talks, Bennacer must make a compelling case—on and off the pitch—that he belongs at Marseille beyond this season.
Whether his flashes of promise are enough to justify a €12 million outlay remains to be seen, but the clock is ticking on a decision that could shape both his career and Marseille’s European ambitions.
The outcome of the imminent meeting between the clubs will likely determine whether Bennacer continues his journey in France or returns to Italy with his future once again in limbo.
