In one of the summer’s most significant football transfers, French international defender Theo Hernandez has completed his move from Italian giants AC Milan to Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal. The 27-year-old left-back, known for his lightning-fast runs and dangerous attacking play, signed a three-year contract with the Middle Eastern club in a deal worth €25 million (approximately $29.2 million).
This transfer marks the end of Hernandez’s successful five-year spell at Milan, where he established himself as one of the world’s best attacking full-backs, helping the team win the 2022 Serie A title and reach the 2023 Champions League semifinals. His move to Saudi Arabia continues the trend of top European players joining the oil-rich kingdom’s rapidly growing league, though it may risk his spot on the French national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Key Details of the Transfer
✔ Contract Terms: 3-year deal with Al-Hilal
✔ Transfer Fee: €25m (potentially rising with add-ons)
✔ International Pedigree: 38 France caps, 2022 World Cup finalist
✔ Family Ties: Younger brother of PSG’s Lucas Hernandez
Why This Move Matters
🔹 For Al-Hilal: Bolsters defense after signing Neymar, Mitrović, Malcom last year
🔹 For Milan: Loses key player who contributed 30 goals+assists in 5 seasons
🔹 For France: Risks 2026 World Cup spot by moving to less competitive league
Career Highlights
• AC Milan (2019-2025): 178 apps, 25 goals – became world’s best attacking full-back
• France: Played every minute in 2022 World Cup knockout stage
• Trophies: 2022 Serie A champion, 2023 UCL semifinalist
What’s Next?
✅ Joins Al-Hilal’s star-studded squad featuring Neymar, Koulibaly
✅ Faces adjustment to Saudi heat and football style
✅ Aims to maintain France spot like Kante did from Saudi league
