Ismael Bennacer sent off on Al-Gharafa debut ahead of Algeria squad announcement

Ismael Bennacer’s return to regular football suffered an early setback when he was sent off on his Al-Gharafa debut, just two days before Brahim Hemdani names his first Algeria squad.

The 28-year-old midfielder had signed for the Qatari club only 24 hours earlier and was expected to use Tuesday’s Asian Champions League meeting with Al-Hilal to begin a fresh chapter in his career. Instead, his first appearance ended in the 33rd minute.

The incident began when Crysencio Summerville confronted a Qatari player. Bennacer reacted by pulling the Dutchman’s hair, prompting the referee to dismiss both players. Al-Gharafa eventually lost the match 2-1.

Although Bennacer’s decision to defend a team-mate may be understandable, the action itself was difficult to justify. He needed playing time and a convincing performance after several seasons disrupted by injuries and a prolonged spell away from his best form.

His fitness had already contributed to him being left out of the 2026 World Cup. The red card, together with any possible suspension, could now delay rather than accelerate the fresh start he needs.

The timing makes the incident particularly damaging. Hemdani is due to announce his first Algeria squad on Thursday, and Bennacer’s immediate return to the national team now appears unlikely. The change of manager had nevertheless created an opportunity for several former internationals hoping to return to the Verts.

Bennacer’s experience and character could have allowed him to reclaim an important role quickly. He might also have been considered as a potential successor to Riyad Mahrez as captain, although Ramy Bensebaini currently appears to be the leading candidate.

For now, the route back into Hemdani’s plans is straightforward: Bennacer must play, build up a run of matches and recover his influence in midfield. The squad will be announced on Thursday.

His performances at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations underline what he can offer. At the age of 21, Bennacer was named player of the tournament as the Verts won the competition. His technical quality and competitive temperament made him one of the defining figures of that Algeria side.

That ability has not disappeared, and many Algeria supporters still hope to see him return to that level. But past achievements alone cannot guarantee his place in a team preparing to establish a new identity under Hemdani.

Bennacer therefore needs to avoid becoming involved in “battles” that do not concern him. His priority is to play consistently and allow his football to make the case for his selection. He may miss Hemdani’s first squad, but future opportunities remain within reach if this dismissal proves to be an isolated incident rather than another interruption to a belated revival.