Ismael Bennacer underlined his happiness after returning from injury, opening up about the ‘very difficult days’ and his ambitions for the season with Milan.
The 26-year-old Algerian midfielder was sidelined for over 200 days after suffering a serious knee injury in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final derby with Inter back on May 10. His first game back was in the closing stages of the recent 3-1 win over Frosinone.
Bennacer is a key player in Stefano Pioli’s Milan squad and his return has been much anticipated by the fans, who have often been left frustrated with the work of the midfielders this term. He is expected to reach full fitness in the coming weeks.
Speaking to Sport Mediaset, Bennacer first discussed how it felt to return to action with Milan after six months on the sidelines.
“When I came on the pitch, I forgot these months. The atmosphere and the fans, when I heard them, thrilled me and made me forget these hard months of work.”
He reflected on the difficulties faced during his recovery.
“It hasn’t always been easy, there have been very, very difficult days, but it’s part of this job. I worked a lot to get back, I did it very well, managing the time well. I’m very proud because I’ve learned many things in these months.”
The 26-year-old spoke honestly about his current condition.
“I want to add my qualities to the team, giving everything I can. I don’t have the pace yet, I’m not 100% yet, but it will come very soon.”
He was reminded of his goal away to Atalanta last season.
“A goal would help the team, so if I can do it, of course I’ll try, I’d also be happy. But I only think about helping the team, if it’s with a goal it’s good, if it’s recovering an important ball or making an assist it will be good also.”
Bennacer was asked if Milan were aiming for the Scudetto this season.
“We are very focused on the season. We are a little late, but the season is long, so we are very focused on the next matches. Then we’ll see about the rest.”
He was also asked if any other players were similar to him.
“This is a good question… Every player has his own qualities, I have mine. Some people resemble me, but it’s obvious that I try to play with my qualities. If they see that this helps the team, then it’s good.”
The 26-year-old commented on his role as a silent leader at Milan.
“Of course, we believe in the Scudetto. The emotions have passed, now we’re working. There is a very long road ahead, we have to aim for match after match.”
The Algerian midfielder also touched on the team’s difficult position in the Champions League.
“We are Milan, it’s not over yet. We still have a chance, so we will do everything we can to try to qualify.”
He spoke about what Zlatan Ibrahimovic could bring to the squad in a backroom role.
“As a teammate, Ibra brought something to the team. We didn’t talk about this with him and my other teammates. I don’t know if he will come back. But Ibra remains Ibra, he would help everyone.”
Bennacer praised all of Milan’s new midfield signings.
“Everyone is very good, everyone has their own style of play. Everyone is very strong. We are working to create something even better.”
He touched on his friendship with Yacine Adli.
“He is like that, he is someone who brings joy to the locker room, he always makes people laugh. When he isn’t happy, he doesn’t show it, this is good because he always thinks about the team.”
Finally, Bennacer was asked if he’d like to stay with Milan for the remainder of his career.
“Why not?! I don’t know what will happen tomorrow, but Milan are a team that’s in my heart.”