Ismael Bennacer has revealed that he chose Milan over Olympique Lyonnais last summer and joked about how Zlatan Ibrahimovic takes advantage of his status.
The midfielder has established himself in the Rossoneri line-up under Stefano Pioli and has played 19 games in the League this term.
But he revealed that the club had been eager to get the deal over the line before he could evaluate other options and revealed that Lyon had shown interest.
“Both the coach and the President wanted me,” he told RMC Sport. “I wanted to play the African Cup of Nations first.
“I had already been contacted by Lyon, but I wold my agent to not let me know until there was real interest.
“Milan wanted to close the deal during the African Cup of Nations, so the choice was already made before the Final. As mentioned above, I was in touch with OL, it was a nice project that I liked.
“I met with Florian Maurice, who wanted me… Then since Sylvinho and Juninho arrived, I haven’t heard anything.”
Zlatan returned to the Giuseppe Meazza during the winter break and Bennacer enjoys to play with the former Sweden international.
“It’s the first time I have played with such a great champion,” he added. “His presence is incredible. Even if he sometimes takes advantage of it… if I pass him the ball and he’ll make a mistake, it’s my fault,” he said and laughed.
Bennacer has picked up 12 yellow cards in his 19 league appearances but he said that Pioli accepts the Algeria international’s aggressive style.
“I get booked a lot because I’m one who always gives everything I have,” he said. “That’s just how I am. Pioli talked about it in an interview, but he knows it’s in my temper.
“Previously I ran a lot, often for nothing, but now it’s better. I do many kilometres per game.”