Ismael Bennacer has bid an emotional farewell to AC Milan after it was confirmed on Friday that he has left the club.
It has been rumoured for a long time, but yesterday the club announced that they had terminated Bennacer’s contract early, which will seemingly pave the way for him to head to Qatar on a free transfer.
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The Algerian joined the Rossoneri in the summer of 2019 from Empoli and became a key part of the resurgence under Stefano Pioli, which culminated in the 2021-22 Scudetto win and the run to the Champions League semi-finals the next season.
Bennacer said goodbye to Milan with a post on his Instagram which featured a video montage of some of his best moments, and there was a statement of thanks attached.
“Hello AC Milan fans. Last year I said goodbye to you without any idea that those words would end up meaning a farewell. Nothing can erase the memories built here over more than five years.
“I wore this shirt with pride, passion, and determination, alongside extraordinary teammates and supported by your unconditional affection.
“Winning the Scudetto with this jersey will forever be one of the fondest memories of my career. Playing at San Siro, in front of you, was also one of the greatest honours.
“I would like to thank everyone who has accompanied me on this journey: my teammates, the various staff members, the club employees, and everyone who has contributed to making this adventure so special.
“A special thought goes out to you, Rossoneri fans, whose love and support will forever remain etched in my heart. You are what make Milan such a unique club.
“I hope our paths can cross again, one way or another, because deep down I feel like our story isn’t quite over yet. Thank you for everything, Forza Milan forever.”
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All the best Benny! I don’t get why a lot of people talk like he was some big failure and cost Milan a lot of money. His total cost, gross wages for 5 years and fee is less than 1 season of Nkunku at Milan. And he had 3 really good seasons. Try doing some basic math if you can?
Thank you for everything.
Thank you for everything. A great player whose health unfortunately took quite a toll on him. Despite that, he played some excellent matches for Milan. Thanks for everything, and good luck. I wish you all the best!
What a sad career for the arab. From Arsenal’s youth to the bottom.
Which “arab” are you talking about exactly? 😀 What, you skipped school?
I love this guy. Farewell and Thank you
Very unlucky with multiple serious injuries that destroyed his career. He lost the pace and reactivity, some of his key strength. Reminds me of Strootman in Rome.
You will be missed. One of our better midfielders in recent years. He and Kessie were quite a force to reckon with and were essential to the Scudetto winning season. All the best to you in your future endeavors Benny!
Grande Isma.
Thank you for everything.
All the best to you
He was genuinely one of the most world-class midfielders when he was in flow. He had everything- skill, speed, ABSOLUTE tenacity, footballing brain, shot. What a fighter. FULL RESPECT to him. He was a GIANT in our team.THANK YOU.