Named the Best Player of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Ismaël Bennacer has made it clear that he is far from complacent. In a candid interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, the AC Milan midfielder reflected on his game, acknowledging both his strengths and the areas where he still seeks improvement. Despite his accolades, Bennacer remains deeply focused on personal growth and enhancing his contribution on the pitch.
“Today, I already talk a lot on the pitch, but I’m quiet off it; I need to be even quieter,” Bennacer said. He emphasized the importance of tactical development, particularly in his ability to recover the ball and relieve pressure on his team. These aspects, he believes, are essential for becoming a more complete player and contributing effectively in every phase of the game. He added that enhancing his leadership qualities is a key objective. “I know I need to be more of a leader on the pitch and have to talk more to my teammates because my position demands it. I need to know how to give the best instructions to my teammates, and I need to understand how to handle difficult situations,” he explained.
Bennacer’s evolution as a player has been closely tied to his move to AC Milan last summer from Empoli. Since joining the Rossoneri, he has been adapted to a new role, transitioning from a traditional box-to-box midfielder to a defensive midfielder stationed just ahead of the backline. This repositioning has been significant for his tactical education and overall growth. “In the past, I played as a Mezzala, but now, for the past year and a half, I’ve been playing in front of the defense. A period during which I’ve learned so much, but still not enough to say that I’m satisfied,” he reflected.
The shift in position has allowed Bennacer to develop a deeper understanding of defensive responsibilities while maintaining his influence on the team’s build-up play. He enjoys the challenges of this role and recognizes that it requires constant concentration and communication. The midfielder’s commitment to improving in this position demonstrates his maturity and willingness to adapt to the demands of top-level football.
Bennacer also highlighted the importance of mental preparation and awareness in handling high-pressure situations. By working on his ability to read the game and anticipate opponents’ movements, he aims to become a more reliable presence in midfield. This self-awareness, coupled with his technical skill, underlines why he has been such a standout performer both for AC Milan and the Algerian national team.
Beyond individual accolades, Bennacer’s focus is on contributing to team success. His dedication to refining his tactical understanding, improving leadership on the pitch, and mastering his new role reflects a broader ambition to elevate both his personal game and his team’s performance.
In summary, Ismaël Bennacer’s journey since the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations has been marked by relentless self-improvement. From adapting to a new position at AC Milan to cultivating leadership skills and tactical awareness, he continues to push the boundaries of his abilities. Even as one of Africa’s most celebrated players, Bennacer’s commitment to growth illustrates a rare combination of talent, humility, and determination, promising further development in the years to come.
