Ismaël Bennacer has expressed his delight at rejoining the Algeria national team after a lengthy spell on the sidelines, declaring his injuries are now behind him.
The 27-year-old midfielder, currently on loan at Olympique de Marseille from AC Milan, has been recalled to Vladimir Petkovic’s squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Rwanda on 5 June and Sweden on 10 June.
It marks his first appearance for the Fennecs since September 2024, when he sustained a calf injury during a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Equatorial Guinea.
“It’s a great feeling to be back in the national team after a long period marked by injuries and certain difficulties, which are now a thing of the past,” Bennacer said in a statement released on the Algerian Football Federation’s YouTube channel. “Thank God, it’s an honour to wear this jersey again. I will give everything on the pitch for the national team, for the fans, and for everyone. I’m very happy to be back.”
The 2019 AFCON Best Player looked visibly pleased during his media appearance, radiating the enthusiasm of a player ready to reignite his international career.
His return could not come at a more crucial time for Algeria, with Petkovic looking to build a competitive side ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations in January 2026 and the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Since Petkovic took over the national team, Bennacer has managed just two appearances, missed nine matches due to recurring injuries, and remained unused on the bench for one.
Those setbacks have considerably slowed the former Arsenal academy graduate’s progress, raising questions about his long-term role in the squad.
However, Bennacer now appears fully focused on reclaiming his place.
While optimism surrounds his national team comeback, uncertainty looms over his club future.
Marseille, where he spent the second half of the 2024–25 season, is reportedly reluctant to trigger the option to buy.
Meanwhile, AC Milan are said to be unconvinced about retaining the Algerian, who has two years remaining on his current contract with the Serie A side.
Injury issues over the past two seasons have significantly impacted Bennacer’s form and market value, leading some observers to question whether he can recapture the level that once made him one of Africa’s most promising midfielders.
Nevertheless, the player remains resolute in his ambitions, with the support of Petkovic and a renewed commitment to his national team potentially serving as key catalysts for his resurgence.
