Ismaël Bennacer, born on 1 December 1997 in Arles, France, is a professional footballer who transitioned his international allegiance to represent Algeria. Throughout his career, he has played for clubs across Europe, including Arsenal, Empoli, and AC Milan, before moving to the Qatar Stars League to join Al-Gharafa in 2026.
Early Career and English Football
Bennacer started his professional journey with the French club Arles before signing with the Premier League side Arsenal in July 2015. He made his senior debut for the English club during a League Cup match against Sheffield Wednesday on 27 October 2015. In early 2017, he moved to the Ligue 2 side Tours on loan, where he recorded his first goal via a free kick.
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In August 2017, Bennacer transferred to Empoli. During the 2017–18 Serie B campaign, he made 39 appearances and helped the club secure promotion to Serie A. His performance drew the attention of AC Milan, which acquired him in August 2019 for a reported fee of €16 million. While at Milan, he secured the Serie A title during the 2021–22 season and later won the Supercoppa Italiana in 2024–25.
International Success and Playing Style
A dynamic left-footed player, Bennacer is recognized for his versatility in midfield, functioning as a deep-lying playmaker or in central offensive roles. He debuted for the Algerian senior team in 2016. In 2019, he played a central role in Algeria's Africa Cup of Nations victory, earning the titles of Best Player and Best Young Player of the tournament.
Recent Club Movements
The final stages of his European career included loan spells at Marseille in 2025 and Dinamo Zagreb, where he achieved success by winning both the HNL title and the Croatian Cup during the 2025–26 season. After his contract with AC Milan was mutually terminated in August 2026, he joined the Qatar Stars League club Al-Gharafa as a free agent in September 2026.
Fast facts
- Born: 1 December 1997, Arles
- International Debut: 2016 for Algeria
- 2019 Africa Cup of Nations: Player of the Tournament
- Serie A Title: 2021–22 with AC Milan
- Positions: Defensive midfielder, Attacking midfielder, Mezzala
- Citizenship: Algeria
Questions readers ask
Which international team does Ismaël Bennacer represent?
He represents the Algeria national team, having switched his allegiance from France in 2016.
What major individual award did he win in 2019?
He was named the Best Player of the Tournament at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
