Bennacer goodbye to Milan fans: ‘Never thought I would write these words’ | OneFootball

Ismael Bennacer has penned a long farewell message to Milan supporters after his deadline day transfer to Olympique Marseille. ‘I never imagined that I would have to write these words.’

The midfielder had pushed for the sudden exit in the mid-season window when he received a proposal from Marseille and specifically coach Roberto De Zerbi.

He wrote a statement on his social media channels and sent his feelings to the supporters he left behind at San Siro.

“Dear Milan fans, I never imagined that I would have to write these words, but from today a new experience awaits me. This club and this city marked an important part of my career and my life, and I can only thank you for everything I experienced here.

“For over five years, I gave everything for this jersey, which I wore with pride and passion, alongside extraordinary teammates and with the support of exceptional fans. I want to express my profound gratitude to all those I had the privilege to meet: my teammates, the staff, club employees and all the people who made this adventure so special.

“Above all, I want to thank you fans for your passion, your unconditional and unique love that makes Milan a different club to all the others. I also want to send a special thanks to all the journalists and numerous social media fan pages, which follow and explain with passion what the life of a club is from day to day, and always supported me.

“Every moment I experienced on the pitch, every emotion shared with you, will always remain in my heart. Nothing can ever cancel these memories, nor the bond that ties me to this club.

“I never liked talking about goodbyes, especially when the bond is so strong. You never know what the future holds, but one thing is certain: my attachment to Milan will remain intact.

“Forza Milan.”

MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 11: Ismael Bennacer of AC Milan looks on before the Coppa Italia match between AC Milan and Torino FC at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on January 11, 2023 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The details of the transfer to Olympique Marseille was a loan worth €1m with option to buy for a further €12m, plus up to €3m in various performance-related bonuses.

The 27-year-old Algeria international had been on the Milan books since 2019 after making a €17.2m move from Empoli, which is where he started his Serie A career.

Bennacer went on to make 178 competitive appearances for the Rossoneri, in which he scored eight goals and contributed 12 assists.

He won the Scudetto and the Supercoppa Italiana, while during his Milan stay he also helped Algeria win the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019.

Bennacer message to Milan supporters