France international Theo Hernández has revealed details surrounding his €25 million summer transfer from AC Milan to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, speaking in an exclusive interview with Spanish newspaper AS. The move, finalized during the 2025 calciomercato, saw the left-back seek a “great change” in his career.
Hernández dismissed suggestions that a move to Saudi Arabia represents a decline in playing level, pointing to the increasing quality of players in the league. He stated that teams are strengthening and the overall standard is rising, expressing confidence that his own performance will not suffer. He also noted his successful integration into life in Riyadh, highlighting the well-being of his family and his remaining two years on his contract with Al-Hilal.
The 26-year-old spent several successful seasons with Milan, amassing 262 official appearances for the club and contributing significantly to their attack with 34 goals and 45 assists. He secured one Serie A title and a Supercoppa Italiana during his time at the San Siro. Hernández acknowledged the impact Milan had on his career, but ultimately felt the time was right for a new challenge.
Interestingly, Hernández also disclosed that he was close to joining Atlético Madrid prior to the Al-Hilal offer. Negotiations with Milan did not reach a successful conclusion, paving the way for his transfer to Saudi Arabia. He had previously played under Zinedine Zidane at Real Madrid and spoke highly of the French manager, while also expressing his continued support for the current France national team coach, Didier Deschamps. He acknowledged Zidane as a “great coach and a great person” but remained diplomatic regarding the future of the national team's leadership.
The defender also addressed France’s prospects at the upcoming 2026 World Cup, cautioning against assuming they are outright favorites, citing strong competition from teams like Spain and Germany.
