Algeria's Bennacer leaves AC Milan after seven years

 (Reuters) - AC Milan have parted ways with midfielder Ismael Bennacer, ​the Serie A club have ‌announced, ending the Algeria international’s seven-year stay at San Siro.

The 28-year-old ​midfielder, who joined Milan ​from Empoli in 2019, has had ⁠spells on loan at ​Olympique de Marseille and Dinamo Zagreb ​after being sidelined by persistent knee injuries.

"AC Milan can confirm the termination ​of Ismael Bennacer's contract by ​mutual consent," the club said in a ‌brief ⁠statement on Friday. "The Club would like to wish him all the best for the future."

Bennacer ​made ​137 Serie ⁠A appearances for Milan, playing a central role ​in their 2021-22 Scudetto ​triumph, ⁠but has struggled with fitness issues and last played a ⁠competitive ​match for the ​Italian side in 2024.