After two seasons at Empoli, Ismaël Bennacer has taken a major step forward in his career, leaving the modest Serie A side to join one of Italy’s most storied clubs, AC Milan. The move comes on the heels of a standout performance at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, where Bennacer played a pivotal role for Algeria and earned recognition as the tournament’s best player. His transition from Empoli to Milan marks a significant progression for the young midfielder, who had established himself as a rising star during his time in Tuscany.
Bennacer’s former club continues to follow his development closely, proud of his achievements and the swift impact he has made at Milan. Empoli president Fabrizio Corsi spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport, praising the midfielder’s talent and adaptability. “We are proud of Ismaël. We knew how strong he was. In Milan, he is proving that he has the qualities to support the transition within a big club,” Corsi explained, highlighting the seamless way Bennacer has adjusted to the demands of a top-tier team.
Since his arrival in Lombardy, Bennacer has quickly become a central figure in Milan’s midfield. Despite moving to a club with higher expectations and greater pressure, he has not struggled to establish himself, demonstrating maturity, technical skill, and composure well beyond his years. His vision, passing accuracy, and ability to control the tempo of the game have made him indispensable in both domestic and European competitions, reflecting the qualities that drew Milan’s attention in the first place.
Bennacer’s journey from Empoli to Milan illustrates the pathway of a player who combined talent with hard work to reach the next level. At Empoli, he honed his skills, gained vital experience, and developed the tactical intelligence required to thrive in Italy’s top flight. That foundation, coupled with the confidence gained from excelling at the Africa Cup of Nations, has allowed him to make an immediate impact at one of Serie A’s biggest clubs.
The midfielder’s rise also underscores the growing influence of African players in European football, with Bennacer serving as a prominent example of talent successfully transitioning to elite clubs. His ability to adapt to a more competitive environment, handle the pressures of high-stakes matches, and consistently perform at a top level has earned him admiration from teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
As Milan continue their campaigns across Serie A and European competitions, Bennacer is poised to play a key role in the club’s ambitions. His emergence as a linchpin in midfield not only highlights his individual development but also signals Milan’s investment in young, talented players capable of shaping the team’s future. With each performance, Bennacer reinforces his status as one of Algeria’s finest exports and one of the most promising midfielders in world football today.
