Bennacer’s Milan Exit: A Free Agent Move to Al-Gharafa in Qatar

FolioPitch.com – 26 July 2026 | Ismael Bennacer flies out for new job in Qatar after Milan terminate contract, ending a once-promising tenure at the San Siro. The Algerian midfielder, whose contract was set to run until June 2027, saw his deal terminated by mutual consent, allowing him to join Al-Gharafa in the Qatar Stars League. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the final paperwork has been completed and Bennacer is now en route to Qatar for medical tests.

Bennacer’s fall from grace has been dramatic. After joining Milan in 2019, he played a pivotal role in the club’s Scudetto triumph in 2022 and the Supercoppa Italiana victory in 2024-25. However, a serious knee injury in May 2023 derailed his career. He never regained his previous form, leading to loan spells at Olympique Marseille and GNK Dinamo Zagreb, neither of which made his move permanent. The 28-year-old made 178 appearances for Milan, scoring eight goals and providing 12 assists, but his last match for the Rossoneri was in February 2025.

Now, as Bennacer flies out for new job in Qatar after Milan terminate contract, he will sign as a free agent with Al-Gharafa. The move marks a fresh start for a player who was once named Player of the Tournament in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, leading Algeria to victory. His career collapse underscores the harsh reality of professional football, where injuries can derail even the most promising talents.

This transfer comes at a critical time for Al-Gharafa, who are looking to bolster their squad for the remainder of the season. Bennacer’s experience in Serie A and international competitions could prove invaluable. However, questions remain about his physical condition and whether he can rediscover his best form in a less demanding league. The Qatar Stars League presents an opportunity for him to rebuild his career away from the European spotlight.

For Milan, the termination of Bennacer’s contract frees up wage bill and allows them to move on from a player who no longer fits their plans. It also ends a saga that had been dragging since his injury. Now, as Bennacer flies out for new job in Qatar after Milan terminate contract, both parties can focus on the future. Bennacer’s journey from being a key figure in a title-winning side to a free agent heading to the Middle East serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of football careers.

In conclusion, Ismael Bennacer’s move to Al-Gharafa represents the closing chapter of his Milan story. The player who once lit up the Africa Cup of Nations and helped the Rossoneri to glory will now seek to revive his form in Qatar. His departure from Milan is final, and the football world will watch to see if he can recapture the magic that made him a star.