Ismael Bennacer’s injury problems have resurfaced during his loan spell at Dinamo Zagreb, casting fresh doubt over AC Milan’s plan to sell the Algerian midfielder next summer.
The midfielder left the pitch after just 23 minutes in Dinamo’s away match against Osijek on 25 January, cutting short a loan move intended to give him regular minutes and rebuild momentum.
Medical tests later confirmed a thigh muscle strain, ruling him out for several weeks at a time when he had been enjoying a strong run of form, playing 12 matches and contributing to 3 goals with one strike and two assists.
His fitness will now be closely monitored ahead of Dinamo Zagreb’s crucial Europa League play-off ties against Belgian side Genk, with uncertainty over whether he will even be included in their UEFA squad.
The setback could have direct financial consequences for Milan, as Bennacer’s loan includes a 10 million euro purchase option. Dinamo had been keen to trigger that clause, but his latest injury is likely to make the Croatian club more cautious.
If they pull back, Bennacer would return to San Siro with recurring fitness issues and a high salary, forcing Milan into a difficult long-term decision on his future.
