AC Milan are facing a significant setback during the international break as news emerges from the Algerian national team camp. Paulo Fonseca, who remained at Milanello to work with available players, will have to do without Ismael Bennacer. Calciomercato report how the Algerian midfielder, who was sought after by Saudi Pro League clubs, Atletico Madrid, and Marseille during the recent summer transfer window, has sustained an injury and will miss Algeria’s upcoming African Cup of Nations qualification match against Liberia on Tuesday.
The injury occurred during Algeria’s training session on an artificial turf, similar to the conditions they’ll face against Liberia. Bennacer was unable to continue training with the rest of the squad. He is expected to return to Milan in the coming hours for a thorough assessment of his condition.
Initial reports suggest that Bennacer has not merely suffered a muscle strain but rather a third-degree lesion – essentially a tear – in his calf. This news has caused significant concern within the Milan camp. While it’s certain that Bennacer will miss the upcoming match against Venezia, there are fears of a much longer absence.
The medical staff of the Algerian national team estimates a recovery time ranging from 2.5 to 3 months. The muscle healing process alone is expected to take at least 6 weeks. Upon his return to Milan, Bennacer will undergo more specific instrumental examinations on Tuesday to determine the exact extent of the calf problem and to quantify the recovery time, which risks being considerably long.
The Algerian Football Federation released an official statement: “Africa Cup of Nations 2025 Qualifications: Bennacer injured in training and excused from the match against Liberia. The national team coach, Vladimir Petkovic, scheduled this Sunday morning the last training session at the National Technical Center of Sidi Moussa before moving to Monrovia in the afternoon. During this session, midfielder Ismael Bennacer suffered an injury and was forced to withdraw without continuing training. After undergoing medical examinations, it was confirmed that the player will not be able to participate in next Tuesday’s match against Liberia.”
