The arrival of European champion Alvaro Morata at AC Milan has led to significant changes within the team, notably for Franco-Algerian midfielder Yacine Adli. Adli has relinquished his number 7 jersey, which he has worn since joining the Rossoneri in the 2022-2023 season, to the newly signed Spanish striker. Morata expressed his gratitude on Instagram, stating, “We don’t know each other yet, but you made a very nice gesture towards me. Thank you, see you soon.” This act has sparked speculation about Adli’s future at the club.
Adli, who chose to represent France over Algeria, has struggled to secure a regular spot in AC Milan’s starting lineup.
This situation appears to be pushing him towards making a significant decision about his career. According to various media reports, Adli has attracted interest from several Gulf clubs, including teams in Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
Al-Sadd, in particular, has reportedly made an official offer for the midfielder. Despite this, the 23-year-old seems hesitant to move to the Gulf, as he aims to revive the impressive form he showed during his early professional years at Bordeaux, where he honed his skills after being trained at Paris Saint-Germain.
The competition for midfield positions at AC Milan has intensified, with Ismaël Bennacer, the current midfielder for the Algerian national team, seemingly preferred over Adli. Bennacer has established himself as a key player for Milan, further complicating Adli’s prospects.
The decision to give up his number 7 jersey could signify a pivotal moment in Adli’s career during this summer transfer window.
Adli’s performance in a recent friendly match against Rapid Vienna highlighted his uncertain standing within the team.
He played the first half before being replaced by Ruben Loftus-Cheek in the 46th minute. Concurrently, Bennacer took to the field, substituting Tommaso Pobega.
These substitutions underscore the club’s preference for Bennacer over Adli.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding his club future, Adli remains eligible for selection by the Algerian national team, should he choose to switch his international allegiance.
This possibility keeps his options open as he navigates his next career steps.
His current hesitation to move to a Gulf league suggests a desire to continue competing at a high level in Europe, where he can further develop his technical abilities and game vision, skills that were particularly evident during his time with Bordeaux.
Yacine Adli’s future at AC Milan remains in flux as the summer transfer window progresses. His gesture of giving up the number 7 jersey to Alvaro Morata has fueled speculation about a potential departure.
With interest from Gulf clubs and a competitive environment at Milan, Adli faces crucial decisions about his career.
Whether he stays to fight for his place at Milan or moves to a new club to seek more playing time and development opportunities, his next steps will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.