Theo Hernández Joins Al Hilal in €30 Million Transfer After Six Years at AC Milan
AC Milan’s Star Left-Back Makes Saudi Pro League Move
Theo Bernard François Hernández, the dynamic left-back who has been a cornerstone of AC Milan’s defense and attack for the past six seasons, has officially completed his transfer to Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal. This move, valued at approximately €25 to €30 million including potential add-ons, marks the end of an important chapter for Hernández and signals a major signing for Al Hilal ahead of their ambitious continental and global campaigns.
The 27-year-old has signed a three-year contract with Al Hilal, which will keep him at the Riyadh-based club until the end of the 2027-28 season. Reportedly, Hernández will earn around €20 million per year, underlining the club’s intent to build a squad capable of competing at the highest levels.
Theo Hernández’s Impact and Legacy at AC Milan
Since arriving from Real Madrid in the summer of 2019, Hernández evolved into one of the most electrifying left-backs in Europe. His time at Milan was punctuated by 262 appearances, during which he contributed an impressive 34 goals and 45 assists. Hernández was instrumental in AC Milan’s triumphant 2021-22 Serie A title campaign under Stefano Pioli, returning the club to the pinnacle of Italian football after an 11-year wait. He also helped Milan secure the Italian Super Cup in 2024-25.
Known for his incredible pace and relentless energy down the left flank, Hernández’s partnership with teammate Rafael Leao was a hallmark of Milan’s offensive strategy. His club teammate and close friend publicly expressed heartfelt farewells following the transfer.
Challenges in the 2024-25 Season and Exit Decision
Despite his past performances, Hernández experienced a challenging 2024-25 season marked by contractual uncertainties and limited involvement in AC Milan’s plans under coach Massimiliano Allegri. This reduced role culminated in the club’s decision to let him move on as part of a squad reshaping process. Allegri confirmed Hernández would not be part of the team going forward, opening the door for his lucrative transfer to the Saudi league.
Al Hilal’s Ambitious Signing to Boost Their Squad
The acquisition of Hernández represents a strategic move by Al Hilal to strengthen their roster with a player of proven quality and elite European experience. The club recently impressed audiences worldwide with their performances against football giants like Real Madrid and Manchester City at the FIFA Club World Cup. Adding Hernández provides Al Hilal with a pacy and attack-minded left-back familiar with the demands of top-level football and capable of delivering defensive solidity paired with offensive threat.
Al Hilal’s new manager, Simone Inzaghi, who knows Hernández from his coaching days at Inter Milan, will be tasked with maximizing the Frenchman’s impact. This familiarity bodes well for Hernández’s smooth integration into the squad and the club’s aspirations to dominate in Asia and beyond.
What This Transfer Means for Both Teams
| Aspect | AC Milan | Al Hilal |
|---|---|---|
| Player Role | Departed key left-back, part of title-winning history | New marquee signing to boost defensive and attacking flanks |
| Financial Impact | Receives €25-30 million transfer fee | Invests heavily with €20 million annual salary commitment |
| Recent Performance | Reshaping squad, moving on from earlier core players | Capitalizing on recent Club World Cup success and Inzaghi’s leadership |
Sources and Official Confirmation
Both AC Milan and Al Hilal have confirmed the transfer through official statements. Hernández completed his medical in Paris before signing, finalizing a deal that will see him don the Al Hilal jersey for three seasons. The deal is widely regarded as a bargain for Al Hilal considering Hernández’s pedigree, despite his less impactful recent season.
Sources reporting on the transfer include AC Milan’s official website, SempreMilan, Arab News, Goal.com, and announcements from Al Hilal themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the transfer fee for Theo Hernández’s move to Al Hilal?
The transfer fee was reported to be around €25 million, with potential add-ons that could raise it up to €30 million.
How long is Theo Hernández’s contract with Al Hilal?
Hernández signed a three-year contract with Al Hilal, which will last until the end of the 2027-28 season.
Why did AC Milan decide to sell Theo Hernández?
AC Milan chose not to include Hernández in their plans for the 2025-26 season due to contract uncertainties and a squad reshaping strategy under coach Massimiliano Allegri.
What impact is Theo Hernández expected to have at Al Hilal?
He is expected to bring pace, attacking threat, and elite European experience to Al Hilal, helping the club compete more strongly in domestic and international competitions.
Who is the Al Hilal coach familiar with Hernández?
Simone Inzaghi, the new Al Hilal coach, previously managed Hernández during his time at Inter Milan and will now oversee his integration at the Saudi club.
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