Algeria midfielder Ismaël Bennacer faces another spell out with knee issue

Bennacer has suffered another injury setback after returning to action, with the midfielder picking up a fresh knee problem during training with Dinamo Zagreb.

The 28-year-old had only recently resumed playing following a two-month absence, but his comeback has been interrupted by a relapse sustained during an individual training session in Croatia.

The latest issue once again raises concerns over his fitness and casts uncertainty over the remainder of his season.

Medical staff at Dinamo Zagreb fear the injury may involve the collateral ligament, a diagnosis that could rule him out for between four and five weeks.

Further clarity is expected following an MRI scan, which is due to determine the full extent of the damage.

The timing is particularly difficult for Bennacer, who had chosen to miss the recent training camp of the Algeria national football team in order to focus on regaining full fitness.

His efforts to rebuild momentum have now been disrupted, adding to a sequence of recurring physical problems.

Currently on loan from AC Milan, Bennacer moved to Dinamo Zagreb in an attempt to revive his career following knee surgery in May 2023.

However, his inability to maintain consistent playing time has limited his impact, with just 13 appearances recorded this season.

This ongoing struggle with injuries may have implications for his future at club level. Dinamo Zagreb are reported to hold an option to make the move permanent, but his continued absence could influence their decision.

Beyond club football, the midfielder’s situation also raises questions about his prospects at international level.

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, maintaining fitness will be crucial if he is to secure a place in the Algeria squad.

Bennacer’s recent record highlights the extent of his difficulties. He made 25 appearances during the 2023–2024 season, followed by 20 the next year, before featuring just 13 times so far this campaign.

In total, he has played 58 matches across the last three seasons.

For a player once regarded as a key figure in Algeria’s midfield, the latest setback underlines an ongoing battle to rediscover consistency and remain available for selection.