AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer has provided an update for fans on when he might be back in action for the Rossoneri and whether he will be at the Africa Cup of Nations with Algeria.
Speaking at a meet and great event outside Casa Milan with Milan News, the midfielder revealed that he will be ready to play for Algeria at AFCON should they ask him to be a part of the squad.
Bennacer has been absent with an injury since the Champions League semi-final last season but he is getting closer to making his return to action.
On his condition, he said: “I’m fine, I’m happy because I’ve been back for a month. Little by little I will find my rhythm again. The knee is ok so I’m happy.”
He was asked about AFCON, which would affect how much he can play for Milan, and he said: “The call-ups haven’t come out yet. When your national team calls you and you’re fine, it’s hard to refuse. If they call me I will be available.”
The midfielder was also asked about a wide range of topics related to Milan, one of which was the return of Zlatan Ibrahimovic to the club in an advisory role.
“Ibra remains Ibra even if he no longer plays. He has a winning mentality. He will give us something more,” he said.
On getting his position back: “We’ll see. I’m getting back well, I’m working a lot. The pace of the match is different, I have to pick it up little by little. I play where the coach needs it. If I feel good I can do anything.”
Milan being in the Europa League: “I want to make my contribution in Europe too. The Europa League is an important competition, I will give my best to give my contribution to the team.”
His goals for 2024: “I want to get back in shape as soon as possible. If I’m well I can make my contribution. We still have more competitions, we will do everything we can to go as far as possible.”
Milan’s current midfield: “We have different players compared to last year. They can give us something different. I’m happy to play with these players.”
The gift exchange at Milanello: “I received a nice perfume from Loftus-Cheek, while I gave some Legos to a video analyst who is a Lego enthusiast, he was really happy. It’s a good initiative.”
As much as it makes me nervous to think about him at AFCOM so soon after returning, good for him for taking the tournament seriously. AFCON is an underrated tournament and loads of fun to watch!