Algerian international Ismaël Bennacer set for return in derby against Hajduk Split

Algerian international Ismaël Bennacer is poised to make his long-awaited return when Dinamo Zagreb meet Hajduk Split in the Croatian league derby on 20 September.

The midfielder, who has been sidelined since June, is expected to be back in action on Matchday 7, offering a significant boost to the reigning champions.

Bennacer’s last appearance came with the Algerian national team shortly after completing his season with Olympique de Marseille.

Since then, injury has kept him out, but Dinamo head coach Mario Kovačević confirmed that the 26-year-old is now close to full fitness.

He had an excellent session last Thursday. He has only been with the group for a week, but his quality is evident and is immediately noticeable in training. When you have a player like him, the difference is obvious. I am very happy to have him with us, the fans will enjoy his game, Kovačević told Sportske.

The midfielder’s loan move to Croatia raised eyebrows across Europe. Many anticipated a return to Marseille, where Bennacer had hoped to continue after last season.

However, negotiations between OM and AC Milan collapsed when the Italian club refused to sanction another loan spell.

Dinamo Zagreb seized the opportunity, helped by sporting director Zvonimir Boban’s strong ties with Milan and the player himself.

For Dinamo, securing a player of Bennacer’s calibre is a coup.

With his ability to dictate tempo, control possession, and break opposition lines, he offers qualities that could prove decisive in both domestic and European campaigns.

His experience in Serie A and Ligue 1, coupled with over 50 international caps for Algeria, adds a layer of maturity to a squad aiming to consolidate its dominance in Croatia while making an impression on the continental stage.

The timing of his comeback is particularly significant.

The clash against Hajduk Split is not only one of the most anticipated fixtures of the Croatian calendar but also a test of Dinamo’s credentials in a tightly contested title race.

Bennacer’s return could give Kovačević greater tactical flexibility, strengthening the midfield both defensively and creatively.

At 26, the Algerian is entering what many consider the prime years of his career.

After a frustrating summer marked by injury setbacks and stalled negotiations, his fresh start in Zagreb offers both redemption and opportunity.

For Dinamo, and their supporters, the derby against Hajduk could mark the beginning of Bennacer’s next influential chapter.