Ismaël Bennacer has endured a stop-start spell since joining Olympique de Marseille in January, but the Ligue 1 side remains committed to making his move permanent.
The Algerian midfielder, who arrived on loan from AC Milan during the 2025 winter transfer window, has struggled to maintain consistent fitness.
Hampered by recurring injuries, Bennacer has managed just 585 minutes of football across six months—equivalent to around six and a half full matches—and has completed only one game in its entirety.
Despite his limited appearances, Marseille are reportedly set to trigger the €12 million purchase option in his contract, according to L’Équipe.
The initial loan fee of €1 million appears to have been a calculated risk, with the club still seeing significant long-term value in the 27-year-old.
Within the club’s hierarchy, there remains firm belief in Bennacer’s technical ability and tactical intelligence, qualities that have made him one of Europe’s most admired midfielders when fully fit.
His flashes of influence, even when short on form, have not gone unnoticed at the Stade Vélodrome.
Roberto De Zerbi, who played a central role in bringing Bennacer to Marseille, is said to be unwavering in his faith that the player can become a cornerstone of the team’s midfield.
Now qualified for the 2026 UEFA Champions League, Marseille are assembling a squad capable of competing across domestic and continental competitions.
A fully fit Bennacer is viewed as a vital component of that ambition.
AC Milan, meanwhile, are awaiting final confirmation from Marseille before making any further decisions on the player’s future.
The Rossoneri appear willing to part ways permanently, pending the French club’s final call. All indications suggest that Marseille intend to move swiftly to complete the deal.
For Algeria, the potential return to full fitness of Bennacer could not come at a better time.
The 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Player of the Tournament has struggled to maintain a regular place in the national side amid his injury woes.
A stable run of games at club level would significantly boost his chances of reclaiming a leading role for the Fennecs.
With the summer transfer window approaching, the decision now rests with Marseille—who appear ready to stake their faith, and finances, on Bennacer’s resurgence.
