Algerian midfielder Ismaël Bennacer joins Qatari club Al-Gharafa

Algeria international Ismaël Bennacer has joined Qatari club Al-Gharafa on a free transfer, with the announcement coming just 24 hours before their AFC Champions League meeting with Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal.

Al-Gharafa confirmed the signing on Monday through a video published on the club’s official X account, with Bennacer set to wear the number 10 shirt.

The Algerian midfielder becomes available to Al-Gharafa after his contract with Italian giants AC Milan was terminated in August.

Bennacer arrives ahead of Al-Hilal test

The timing of the announcement comes on the eve of a major Asian challenge for Al-Gharafa.

Al-Hilal are scheduled to host the Qatari side at Kingdom Arena on Tuesday in the opening round of the league stage of the AFC Champions League.

Bennacer’s arrival gives Al-Gharafa an experienced midfielder as they begin their continental campaign, although the announcement leaves little time for him to settle into his new surroundings before the Al-Hilal encounter.

Algerian looking to revive career

The 28-year-old spent the past season and a half away from Milan as he attempted to rediscover his form and secure regular playing time.

He was initially loaned to French side Olympique Marseille before moving to Croatian club Dinamo Zagreb, but neither spell enabled him to return to his best level.

His struggles also affected his international prospects, with Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic leaving Bennacer out of the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The move to Al-Gharafa now provides the former Milan midfielder with another opportunity to revive his career and regain his place at international level.