AC Milan confirms mutual contract termination with midfielder Ismael Bennacer
The Serie A club has officially ended the contract of a key figure in their 2021-22 title-winning side, with reports suggesting a potential move to Qatar.
AC Milan has formally confirmed the termination of midfielder Ismael Bennacer’s contract by mutual consent, bringing an end to a seven-year association with the club. The Algerian international has not featured in a competitive fixture for the Rossoneri since 2024, marking a significant shift in the squad’s midfield composition.
In a brief statement, the club acknowledged the agreement and wished Bennacer well for the future. The decision concludes a period that began with a €16m transfer from Empoli in the summer of 2019. During his time at San Siro, Bennacer made 178 competitive appearances, including 137 in Serie A, establishing himself as a vital component of the team’s structure.
Bennacer was instrumental in Milan’s 2021-22 Serie A title victory under manager Stefano Pioli, appearing in 31 league matches during the championship campaign. However, his trajectory at the club was altered by a serious knee injury sustained at the end of the 2022-23 season, which significantly curtailed his playing time in subsequent years.
Following his recovery, Bennacer returned to action in December 2023 and made 20 Serie A appearances in the 2023-24 season, predominantly as a substitute. His status within the first-team setup changed further when he was loaned to Marseille midway through the 2024-25 campaign, followed by a move to Dinamo Zagreb for the 2025-26 season.
While the club has not disclosed specific financial details regarding the mutual consent agreement, recent reports indicate that Bennacer may be preparing for a move to Qatar to join Al-Gharafa. The termination of his contract clears his registration, allowing for a potential transfer to the Qatari side as he seeks to resume regular competitive football.
