Ayman Benarous marked his first competitive start in more than three years by helping Plymouth Argyle to a Carabao Cup win over Queens Park Rangers.
The 22-year-old midfielder joined Argyle in July after leaving Bristol City and is determined to rebuild a career disrupted by serious injuries.
Comeback Performance
Benarous impressed on his full debut at Home Park as Argyle secured a 3-2 victory to progress in the competition. It was his first start since 23 April 2022, ending a lengthy spell without regular football following two serious knee injuries and hamstring surgery.
Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, Benarous said: “It’s a great opportunity to kick-start my career back on track and show what I’ve got again. I believe in my quality and I still think, hopefully, in the next five years I can get back to the highest level. I’ve still got aspirations to that.”
He credited head coach Tom Cleverley and his staff for giving him the chance to prove himself, adding that both assistant managers had also endured long-term injuries during their playing days. “They understand the hardships of that,” he explained.
Trial to Contract
The midfielder arrived on trial earlier this summer determined to impress. His work in pre-season, including leading several fitness drills, convinced the coaching team that he had overcome his injury setbacks. “I was at the front of most of the running tests,” he said. “That gave me the confidence, and I think the club the confidence that hopefully I’m over my injuries.”
Benarous’s arrival at Argyle came after 16 years with Bristol City. He joined their academy at the age of six, signing his first professional deal in February 2021. He made his senior debut in October 2021 as a substitute in a 2-1 Championship win over Barnsley, shortly after scoring a hat-trick for the Under-23s against Watford.
A run in the first team led to a new three-year contract in February 2022, but his progress was halted by injury. He left Ashton Gate when his contract expired on 1 July 2025, having made 11 senior appearances for the Robins.
Writer’s View
Benarous’s full debut for Plymouth was a significant moment, not just in his career but for the club’s midfield options. His energy, composure and determination to prove himself could make him a valuable asset in League One this season. If he can stay fit, the potential that once saw him tipped for a bright Championship future may still be realised, and Argyle could benefit from securing a hungry, talented player on a free transfer.
