Ismaël Bennacer is poised to remain with Olympique de Marseille for another season, as the French club nears an agreement with AC Milan to extend the midfielder’s loan.
Despite a difficult match against Sweden in which he still managed to score a remarkable goal, Bennacer, 27, is fully aware of the effort required this summer to return to the elite level he once occupied.
The Algerian international, a key figure in his country’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations triumph, has faced a challenging period in recent seasons, including a mixed spell during his first six months at Marseille.
Initially, it appeared that Marseille would not activate the purchase option attached to Bennacer’s original loan deal. However, fresh negotiations have altered that outlook. which first broke the story, discussions between OM and AC Milan have progressed rapidly, and a second loan arrangement is close to being finalised.
Although the precise terms of the deal remain undisclosed, reports from L’Équipe suggest that Marseille, under newly appointed coach Roberto De Zerbi, is prepared to retain Bennacer for the 2024–25 season on another loan basis. Whether the new agreement will include an obligation to buy, a paid loan structure, or full salary coverage is yet to be confirmed.
Bennacer’s return to Ligue 1 in January was seen as a potential turning point in his career, following injury setbacks and a lack of consistency during his latter months at Milan.
At Marseille, flashes of his technical quality and tactical intelligence have been evident, but he has struggled for consistent game time and rhythm.
Nonetheless, his recent performances, including the goal against Sweden, demonstrate that the former Empoli and Arsenal youth player still possesses the capability to influence games at the highest level.
For Marseille, the decision to extend his stay reflects both belief in Bennacer’s potential and a calculated effort to bolster their midfield options ahead of a demanding season that will include European competition.
Marseille’s midfield has undergone significant restructuring under De Zerbi, who is known for his emphasis on possession-based football and intelligent positional play.
Bennacer’s skill set — particularly his composure under pressure and ability to dictate tempo — fits well within that philosophy, making him a valuable asset if he can stay fit and rediscover his top form.
For the player himself, the upcoming season represents a critical juncture. At 27, Bennacer is entering what should be the prime years of his career.
Another year in Marseille offers the opportunity to rebuild his form, reputation, and value, while contributing meaningfully to a club with high ambitions.
If the loan deal is finalised as expected, Bennacer will have a clear mission: to prove that he still belongs among Europe’s best midfielders. Marseille, for their part, are giving him that platform once more — a second chance he will be determined not to waste.
