Theo Hernandez, the dynamic French left-back, has officially concluded his six-year tenure with AC Milan, making a high-profile move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. While player transfers often involve standard farewells, Hernandez`s departure is notable for the critical tone of his message to the Rossoneri faithful and, pointedly, the club`s management.
In a message shared on social media, Hernandez expressed his deep affection for Milan, stating it had always been his priority. However, he coupled this sentiment with a clear critique of the club`s current path. He asserted that “the direction the club has taken and some recent decisions do not reflect the values nor the ambition that brought me here,” indicating a misalignment between his aspirations and those of the current ownership.
This statement echoes sentiments perceived by some observers and fans regarding a shift in focus under the current leadership, often characterized as prioritizing financial returns and “player trading” over consistent sporting ambition and long-term team building. Hernandez specifically thanked former Technical Director Paolo Maldini for his “closeness, vision, and leadership,” a figure whose own departure from the club under controversial circumstances was seen by many as a pivotal moment in this perceived change of direction.
Hernandez highlighted achieving significant milestones like winning Serie A and the Supercoppa Italiana during his time at Milan and expressed gratitude towards his teammates and the fans, whose support he described as an unforgettable privilege. He maintained that he leaves “with my head held high” having given his all, and hopes Milan will “very soon return to the place it deserves.”
The move to Al-Hilal, a club in the rapidly expanding Saudi Pro League known for lucrative contracts, adds an interesting layer to Hernandez`s comments on ambition. While a significant professional step financially, some might raise an eyebrow at the notion of prioritizing `ambition` by moving from a historic European club potentially competing in top continental competitions to a league still establishing its global sporting prestige. This paradox, however, does not diminish the substance of his critique regarding the internal dynamics and direction he witnessed at Milan.
Hernandez`s pointed farewell, particularly his remarks contrasting the current state with the values that attracted him in 2019 and his specific praise for Maldini, positions his departure as more than just a transfer. It serves as a public statement on the perceived state of affairs within AC Milan under its current management, sparking further debate among the fanbase about the club`s identity and future path.
Elton Marrow