Algeria midfielder Ismaël Bennacer could yet find opportunity at Dinamo Zagreb

Algerian midfielder Ismaël Bennacer faces growing uncertainty over his future after an injury-disrupted season that contributed to his omission from Algeria’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

The 27-year-old joined Dinamo Zagreb on loan from AC Milan last summer in an attempt to revive his career, but recurring fitness problems prevented him from establishing consistent form.

The setbacks limited his involvement during the second half of the campaign and ultimately affected both his club and international prospects.

Bennacer’s absence from Algeria’s World Cup squad was one of the consequences of a difficult season, as injuries denied him the opportunity to build momentum and secure regular playing time.

His future at club level has also become a subject of discussion. Dinamo Zagreb decided against activating the €10 million purchase option included in the loan agreement, bringing an end to any immediate plans for a permanent transfer.

However, the Croatian club have not completely closed the door on the Algerian international.

According to Germanijak, Dinamo Zagreb president Zvonimir Boban remains a strong admirer of Bennacer. Boban, who worked with the midfielder during his time as an executive at AC Milan, is understood to retain confidence in the player’s abilities and would be open to seeing him continue his career in Croatia.

Any such move, however, would depend on several factors.

With one year remaining on his AC Milan contract, Bennacer finds himself at a crossroads. His market value has been affected by his recent injury problems, while his lack of World Cup involvement has removed an opportunity to regain visibility on the international stage.

The report suggests AC Milan could consider a mutual termination of his contract as the club assesses how best to resolve a situation that has become increasingly complicated. Bennacer reportedly earns more than four million euros per year, a figure that could encourage the Italian side to seek a long-term solution.

Should the midfielder become available on a free transfer, Dinamo Zagreb could renew their interest. The club are said to maintain a positive view of the player, who enjoyed the confidence of Boban during his time there.

Nevertheless, the final decision may ultimately depend on Bennacer himself. There is no indication that he intends to remain in Croatia, and other opportunities could emerge in the coming weeks.

Financial considerations could also prove decisive, as Bennacer’s current salary level is well beyond the resources typically available to Dinamo Zagreb.

For now, the Algeria international remains in a period of uncertainty, with his next career move likely to become clearer once his situation at AC Milan is resolved.