Algeria: Major relief as Ismaël Bennacer nears return for club and country

Ismaël Bennacer is closing in on a return to action after months on the sidelines, offering timely encouragement to both GNK Dinamo Zagreb and the Algeria national football team ahead of a crucial international window.

The midfielder has been absent since January following a series of muscle injuries that disrupted his season and raised concerns over his fitness.

His recovery now appears to be entering its final phase, with positive updates emerging from within his club.

Bennacer initially suffered a muscle problem during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

After working his way back, he sustained another injury on 25 January during Dinamo Zagreb’s Croatian league encounter against Osijek.

That setback ruled him out of eight consecutive matches, prompting doubts about his readiness for the demanding run-in and upcoming international commitments.

According to Croatian outlet Jutarnji, citing a source inside the club, the 27-year-old is making strong progress in his rehabilitation programme.

His recovery included treatment at the renowned Aspetar sports medicine centre in Qatar.

Bennacer is scheduled to return to Zagreb on 3 March, where he will gradually rejoin group training as he builds towards full match fitness.

His competitive return is anticipated after Dinamo Zagreb’s match against Hajduk Split on 8 March, a fixture that could mark a significant step in his comeback.

The timing is particularly important for head coach Vladimir Petković, whose side are preparing for a March training camp in Italy.

Algeria are set to face Guatemala and Uruguay in friendly matches as part of their build-up to the 2026 World Cup.

A further test awaits in June against the Netherlands in Rotterdam.

With Algeria determined to avoid a repeat of their failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Bennacer’s return carries symbolic and practical importance.

As captain and a central figure in midfield, his availability would strengthen the squad’s preparations for a tournament scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

While caution remains over his workload, optimism is growing among supporters and staff alike.

Bennacer’s long absence appears to be nearing its end — and with it, hopes are rising for a decisive summer for club and country.