France international Theo Hernandez has officially completed a high-profile move to Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Hilal, but his departure from AC Milan has stirred more than just transfer headlines—it has sparked controversy.
In a searing farewell message posted on Instagram, Hernandez didn’t hold back. While expressing gratitude to fans and former teammates, the 26-year-old left-back took a direct swipe at Milan’s current leadership, claiming the club no longer represents the values or ambition that once inspired him to join in 2019.
Theo Hernandez Blasts AC Milan After Al-Hilal Move: “The Club No Longer Reflects Its Values or Ambition”
France international Theo Hernandez has officially completed a high-profile move to Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Hilal, but his departure from AC Milan has stirred more than just transfer headlines—it has sparked controversy.
In a searing farewell message posted on Instagram, Hernandez didn’t hold back. While expressing gratitude to fans and former teammates, the 26-year-old left-back took a direct swipe at Milan’s current leadership, claiming the club no longer represents the values or ambition that once inspired him to join in 2019.
“The Direction the Club Has Taken Does Not Reflect What Brought Me Here” — Theo Fires Back
After six impactful years at the San Siro, Hernandez has chosen to walk away—not just for a lucrative contract (reportedly worth €20 million per year)—but due to what he describes as Milan’s declining identity.
“I arrived at AC Milan with dreams and excitement… but recent decisions don’t reflect the values or ambition that brought me here,” he wrote.
“Not everything depends on one person. It’s time to close this chapter.”
While Hernandez initially sought a contract extension to remain in Milan, negotiations quickly stalled. Insiders reveal the club’s refusal to meet his salary expectations essentially signaled the end of the road. Atletico Madrid made an attempt to re-sign him but failed to agree on terms, paving the way for Al-Hilal to swoop in with an offer too good to refuse.
From San Siro Glory to a Saudi Revolution
During his time with Milan, Hernandez was a central figure in the club’s resurgence—helping them win the 2021/22 Serie A title and the Italian Super Cup. In his farewell, he reserved special praise for Milan legend Paolo Maldini, calling him a true visionary who believed in him from the start.
“Thank you, Paolo Maldini… your support and leadership made all the difference,” Hernandez said, emphasizing how much Maldini’s exit had changed the club dynamic.
What’s Next for Hernandez?
Theo Hernandez now embarks on a new challenge in Saudi Arabia under manager Simone Inzaghi, another familiar face from Italian football. He will be part of an elite Al-Hilal squad featuring big names like Kalidou Koulibaly, Ruben Neves, and Aleksandar Mitrovic.
His expected debut is on August 20, when Al-Hilal face Al-Qadsiyah in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal.
A Transfer That Signals More Than Just Business
This isn’t just another big-money move to the Middle East. Hernandez’s farewell speech paints a larger picture of unrest and transition within AC Milan—a club that once boasted unity and vision, now seemingly drifting from its roots.
Whether or not Milan fans agree with Hernandez’s sentiments, one thing is clear: the defender leaves with passion in his voice and fire in his boots. And while his next chapter lies in Riyadh, his heart still beats Rossonero.
“I leave with my head held high and a full heart. Milan will always be a part of me. Forza Milan, always.”
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“The Direction the Club Has Taken Does Not Reflect What Brought Me Here” — Theo Fires Back
After six impactful years at the San Siro, Hernandez has chosen to walk away—not just for a lucrative contract (reportedly worth €20 million per year)—but due to what he describes as Milan’s declining identity.
“I arrived at AC Milan with dreams and excitement… but recent decisions don’t reflect the values or ambition that brought me here,” he wrote.
“Not everything depends on one person. It’s time to close this chapter.”
While Hernandez initially sought a contract extension to remain in Milan, negotiations quickly stalled. Insiders reveal the club’s refusal to meet his salary expectations essentially signaled the end of the road. Atletico Madrid made an attempt to re-sign him but failed to agree on terms, paving the way for Al-Hilal to swoop in with an offer too good to refuse.
From San Siro Glory to a Saudi Revolution
During his time with Milan, Hernandez was a central figure in the club’s resurgence—helping them win the 2021/22 Serie A title and the Italian Super Cup. In his farewell, he reserved special praise for Milan legend Paolo Maldini, calling him a true visionary who believed in him from the start.
“Thank you, Paolo Maldini… your support and leadership made all the difference,” Hernandez said, emphasizing how much Maldini’s exit had changed the club dynamic.
What’s Next for Hernandez?
Theo Hernandez now embarks on a new challenge in Saudi Arabia under manager Simone Inzaghi, another familiar face from Italian football. He will be part of an elite Al-Hilal squad featuring big names like Kalidou Koulibaly, Ruben Neves, and Aleksandar Mitrovic.
His expected debut is on August 20, when Al-Hilal face Al-Qadsiyah in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal.
A Transfer That Signals More Than Just Business
This isn’t just another big-money move to the Middle East. Hernandez’s farewell speech paints a larger picture of unrest and transition within AC Milan—a club that once boasted unity and vision, now seemingly drifting from its roots.
Whether or not Milan fans agree with Hernandez’s sentiments, one thing is clear: the defender leaves with passion in his voice and fire in his boots. And while his next chapter lies in Riyadh, his heart still beats Rossonero.
“I leave with my head held high and a full heart. Milan will always be a part of me. Forza Milan, always.”
