Ismael Bennacer has professed that he is in love with being at AC Milan, and spoke about how it feels to wear the captain’s armband in the times that he has.
The Algerian midfielder joined Milan from Empoli back in the summer of 2019 and his development has seen him become one of the most important players in the team and one of the best midfielders in the league.
Bennacer spoke to the UEFA Champions League Magazine ahead of the quarter-final tie against Napoli with his comments relayed by MilanNews, beginning by talking about what it is like playing alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
“He wants everyone to give their all. Mistakes are not allowed. This has played a part in our recent successes. We have seen that hard work brings results. We are meticulous, you only improve when you strive for perfection. Nothing must be left to chance, even if it doesn’t depend on us. This is how you get to the top.” he said.
On the captain’s armband: “It’s a great honour and a reward for hard work. It’s a responsibility. It means so many things because Milan are a great club. As captain you have to be an example on and off the pitch.”
Calciomercato.com reported earlier today that Bennacer actually turned down the possibility of rejoining Arsenal – the club he spent time at as a youth player – to renew his contract with the Rossoneri, and he made his feelings on Milan clear.
“No one has to tell you how special this team is, you understand it by yourself being in one of the biggest clubs and you can breathe the crazy history of Milan every day. That’s why I’m in love with this club.”