Ismael Bennacer Joins Dinamo Zagreb on Loan From AC Milan

Dinamo Zagreb have signed midfielder Ismael Bennacer on a one-year loan deal from AC Milan. The agreement includes an option to buy the player. Bennacer, an Algerian international, hopes to get more playing time in Croatia and help his new team achieve their goals this season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Dinamo Zagreb announced that they have reached an agreement with AC Milan for the temporary transfer of Bennacer. The 26-year-old will play for Dinamo for the whole 2025/26 season. Dinamo can make the deal permanent by activating a potential buy clause. Bennacer, who recently turned down an offer from Trabzonspor, struggled for regular minutes in Italy last season and chose to join the Croatian champions despite offers from Ligue 1 club Marseille and Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR BOTH CLUBS

The move frees up space in AC Milan’s squad in a position where they have a lot of options set to compete for minutes in the Algerian’s absence. Dinamo, meanwhile, are adding to their ranks for their search for European success. They currently lead the HNL, on goal difference over Hajduk Split, as they prepare for the 1st round of the Croatian Cup before playing HNK Gorica for the league after the international break. After that they will travel to Split to face Hajduk before opening their Europa League with a home match against Fenerbahce, as Dinamo hope Bennacer’s inclusion will help them advance in continental competition.

WHAT COMES NEXT FOR BENNACER AND DINAMO?

The midfielder will be expected to make his debut against HNK Gorica in a vital league game on in two weeks. Dinamo are currently top of the league and cannot afford to slip up against their title rivals. Bennacer could be a key figure in the team if he can establish himself in Ante Cacic’s squad.