Ismael Bennacer’s attempt to make an immediate impression at Al-Gharafa ended in an early red card, putting his hopes of returning to the Algeria squad under new manager Brahim Hemdani in doubt.
The midfielder was dismissed on his debut against Al-Hilal in the Asian Champions League on Tuesday, just 24 hours after completing his move to the Qatari club. Al-Gharafa went on to lose 2-1.
Bennacer’s first appearance for his new team lasted only 33 minutes. After Crysencio Summerville confronted a Qatari player, Bennacer reacted by pulling the Dutchman’s hair. The referee sent off both players.
The 28-year-old’s decision to defend a team-mate may be understandable, but the incident came at a particularly damaging time for a player who needs regular football. Bennacer has endured several seasons disrupted by injuries and a prolonged spell away from his best form.
His physical condition had already contributed to his omission from the 2026 World Cup. Any suspension resulting from Tuesday’s dismissal could now delay, rather than accelerate, his efforts to rebuild his career.
The timing is especially unfortunate because Hemdani is due to announce his first Algeria squad on Thursday. In the current circumstances, Bennacer’s immediate return to the national team appears unlikely.
The change in manager has nevertheless raised hopes among several former internationals who are seeking a way back into the Algeria set-up. Bennacer’s experience and personality could have allowed him to reclaim an important role quickly.
He may also have been considered in discussions over the next captain to succeed Riyad Mahrez, although Ramy Bensebaini currently appears to be the stronger candidate.
For now, Bennacer’s route back to Hemdani’s plans is straightforward: he must play, build up a run of matches and rediscover his influence in midfield. The new manager’s squad will be announced on Thursday.
His importance to Algeria was clear during the team’s successful 2019 campaign. At the age of 21, Bennacer was named the best player at the CAN won by the Fennecs. His technical ability and competitive character made him one of the defining figures of that generation.
That talent has not disappeared, and many Algeria supporters still hope to see Bennacer operating at that level again. However, his previous achievements alone cannot guarantee him a place in a national team preparing to establish a new identity under Hemdani.
Bennacer therefore needs to avoid becoming involved in unnecessary “battles” and allow his performances to make the case for him. He may miss out on Hemdani’s first selection, but future squads remain within reach if the red card proves to be an isolated setback rather than another interruption to a revival that has already been delayed.