AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer has completed a shock loan move to Croatian champions Dinamo Zagreb, in one of the most unexpected deals of the transfer window.
The Algeria international, 26, had been widely tipped for a move within Europe’s top five leagues, with Premier League and Ligue 1 clubs monitoring his situation. Instead, he will spend the 2025/26 campaign in Zagreb, joining a Dinamo side preparing for another Champions League push.
Bennacer has been a central figure at San Siro since joining from Empoli in 2019, making over 150 appearances and helping Milan secure the Serie A title in 2022. Known for his composure on the ball and ability to dictate tempo, he was viewed as one of the club’s most reliable midfielders.
However, injuries have hampered his progress in recent seasons. A long-term knee problem ruled him out of much of the 2023/24 campaign, and while he returned to action, he struggled to regain his best form. Milan have since reshaped their midfield, with new arrivals pushing Bennacer down the pecking order.
Dinamo Zagreb confirmed the loan on Thursday, calling it a “historic signing” and one that underlines the club’s ambitions. “Ismael Bennacer is a player of international class, and we are proud to welcome him to Dinamo,” a club statement said. “His experience in Serie A and the Champions League will be invaluable as we continue to compete at the highest level.”
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The move is seen as a coup for Dinamo, who rarely attract players with such pedigree. Bennacer is expected to be a key part of their European campaign, with qualification for the Champions League group stage a top priority.
For the player, the loan offers a chance to regain match sharpness and regular playing time ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where Algeria will look to reclaim the title they last won in 2019.
Milan supporters have expressed surprise at the destination, with many expecting Bennacer to remain in one of Europe’s elite leagues. However, the Rossoneri hierarchy appear to view the move as an opportunity for him to rebuild confidence before reassessing his long-term future.