Midfielder has regrets leaving Arsenal early in his career

AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer has admitted that it was a tough decision to leave Arsenal at the early stage of his career.

The 26-year-old was described as one of the best young talents during his time with the Gunners, but he was not patient enough.

He made the permanent move to Empoli in the summer of 2017 and two years later, he sealed a switch to Milan in a big-money deal.

Bennacer is now a mainstay in the starting XI for the Rossoneri but admitted that it was a tough decision to leave Arsenal and London.

He said: "It was a tough decision, but when you have the confidence to work well and put the patience into it, in the end you are rewarded. I think I was rewarded in the end."

Bennacer added that he is hopeful of retiring in the Italian top-flight and is optimistic of seeing out the remainder of his career with the Rossoneri.