2026 World Cup - Algeria: Ismaël Bennacer in total disbelief!

Left out of Algeria's squad for the 2026 World Cup, Ismaël Bennacer has broken his silence with immense emotion and a deep sense of confusion.

The exclusion of Ismaël Bennacer from Algeria’s World Cup 2026 roster continues to spark a flurry of reactions. A key figure for the Fennecs and Best Player of AFCON 2019, the Dinamo Zagreb midfielder shared his profound bewilderment in an interview with La Gazette du Fennec.

"I won’t lie, I’m in total disbelief. When you feel physically fit, when you’re working hard, getting back to your best, and you’ve dreamed of playing in the World Cup with your country for years, it’s incredibly hard to accept," admitted the 28-year-old, clearly shaken by Vladimir Petkovic’s decision.

See also: 2026 World Cup, Jordan: Jamal Sellami bows to Algeria

"I feel 100%"

After being hampered by injuries for a long time, Bennacer insists he’s finally regained peak physical condition.

"Today, I feel great, at 100%. I was coming back strong, starting to rack up minutes and rediscovering my rhythm," he explained.

The former AC Milan player also revealed he turned down several offers from the Gulf in order to stay competitive in Europe, with a clear goal: to finally play in a World Cup with Algeria.

Bennacer standing behind the Fennecs no matter what

Despite his huge disappointment, the Algerian midfielder promises to keep supporting the Greens throughout the tournament. "No matter what happens, I’ll be behind my brothers. Algeria comes first," Bennacer declared.

The Arles-Avignon academy product is still holding out hope he could join the squad if the situation changes:

"As long as there’s a possibility, I’ll be ready to answer the call."

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

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