Theo Hernandez’s €25 Million Transfer to Al-Hilal Signals Saudi Pro League’s Growing Ambitions

French Star Leaves AC Milan for Saudi Arabia in Landmark Move

Theo Hernandez, the celebrated French left-back, has completed a high-profile transfer from AC Milan to Al-Hilal, marking another significant milestone in the Saudi Pro League’s ongoing campaign to attract top European football talent. The €25 million deal, confirmed by both clubs on July 10, 2025, sees the 27-year-old defender signing a three-year contract that will keep him in Riyadh through the 2027-28 season, with a reported annual salary of €20 million.

A New Era for Theo Hernandez

Hernandez’s move to Al-Hilal ends a six-year tenure at AC Milan, where he established himself as one of Europe’s premier full-backs. Since joining Milan from Real Madrid in 2019, Hernandez made 262 appearances, scoring 34 goals and providing 45 assists. His dynamic play and attacking prowess from the left flank were instrumental in Milan’s resurgence, including their 2022 Serie A title win.

The French international’s departure comes after a period of speculation and negotiation. Reports indicate that Hernandez had initially rejected overtures from Saudi Arabia but ultimately decided to embrace the new challenge following discussions with Milan management and the conclusion of the Club World Cup. The transfer fee, set at €25 million, reflects both Hernandez’s value and the Saudi league’s willingness to invest heavily in top-tier European talent.

Al-Hilal’s Ambitious Project

Al-Hilal, one of the most decorated clubs in Asia, has been at the forefront of the Saudi Pro League’s transformation. Backed by significant financial resources, the club has made a series of marquee signings in recent years, aiming to elevate the league’s profile and competitiveness on the global stage. Hernandez joins a roster already featuring several high-profile internationals, and his arrival is expected to bolster Al-Hilal’s domestic and continental ambitions.

The club’s new manager, Simone Inzaghi—formerly of Inter Milan—will oversee Hernandez’s integration into the squad. Inzaghi’s appointment in June 2025 signaled Al-Hilal’s intent to combine elite coaching with world-class playing talent, further underlining the club’s aspirations.

Economic Impact and Market Dynamics

The transfer of Theo Hernandez to Al-Hilal is emblematic of a broader trend reshaping the global football economy. Saudi clubs, fueled by state-backed investment, have become major players in the international transfer market, offering lucrative contracts that rival or exceed those available in Europe’s top leagues. Hernandez’s reported €20 million annual salary places him among the highest-paid defenders in the world, underscoring the financial allure of the Saudi Pro League.

For AC Milan, the sale represents both a sporting and financial turning point. The €25 million fee provides the club with resources to reinvest in the squad, with reports suggesting that Milan is actively pursuing replacements, including Girona’s Miguel Gutierrez. The move also highlights the increasing difficulty Serie A clubs face in retaining their top talent amid competition from emerging markets.

Historical Context: European Stars in the Middle East

Hernandez’s transfer is the latest in a series of high-profile moves from Europe to Saudi Arabia. Over the past two years, the Saudi Pro League has attracted a wave of international stars, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and N’Golo Kanté. The league’s aggressive recruitment strategy is part of a broader vision to position Saudi Arabia as a global sports hub, leveraging football’s popularity to drive economic diversification and international engagement.

Historically, Middle Eastern clubs have struggled to lure players in their prime, often signing veterans in the twilight of their careers. Hernandez, at 27, represents a shift in this paradigm—joining Al-Hilal at the peak of his abilities and with significant years ahead at the top level. This evolution signals a new era for the Saudi Pro League, with potential long-term implications for player movement and competitive balance in world football.

Regional Comparisons: Saudi Pro League vs. European Leagues

The influx of European talent into the Saudi Pro League has intensified comparisons with established competitions such as the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A. While the Saudi league still trails its European counterparts in terms of overall quality, infrastructure, and global reach, the financial packages on offer have begun to shift the calculus for players considering their next career move.

In contrast, European leagues continue to offer the allure of historic clubs, intense competition, and global visibility. However, the growing financial might of Saudi clubs is forcing European teams to adapt, whether by increasing wages, renegotiating contracts, or accelerating youth development to offset the loss of key players.

Public Reaction and Media Coverage

Hernandez’s departure from Milan has generated significant discussion among fans and pundits. His farewell message, posted on social media, included pointed criticism of Milan’s current leadership, suggesting a disconnect between the club’s ambitions and his own. The move has been met with mixed emotions—admiration for his contributions to Milan’s recent successes, but also disappointment at his decision to leave European football at a relatively young age.

In Saudi Arabia, Hernandez’s arrival has been greeted with excitement and anticipation. Al-Hilal supporters are eager to see how the Frenchman’s experience and skill will translate to the domestic league and the Asian Champions League, where Al-Hilal is a perennial contender.

The Broader Sports Landscape: Maledon’s Move to Real Madrid Baloncesto

While footballs have been dominated by Hernandez’s transfer, another notable move occurred in European basketball. French guard Theo Maledon has officially joined Real Madrid Baloncesto, as confirmed by the EuroLeague. Maledon’s signing adds depth and versatility to the Spanish giants’ roster, further strengthening their position as one of Europe’s premier basketball clubs.

Maledon, who previously played in the NBA and the French league, brings a blend of athleticism and playmaking ability that should complement Real Madrid’s existing core. His move underscores the continued appeal of European basketball’s top teams for international talent, even as other regions, such as the Middle East and Asia, increase their investment in sports.

Looking Ahead: What Hernandez’s Transfer Means for Global Football

Theo Hernandez’s move to Al-Hilal is more than just a transfer—it is a reflection of the shifting dynamics in global football. As Saudi Arabia and other emerging markets continue to invest in sports, established leagues and clubs must navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. For players, the decision to move abroad is increasingly shaped by a combination of financial incentives, professional challenges, and personal ambitions.

For fans, these moves offer both excitement and uncertainty. The arrival of world-class talent in new markets can elevate the sport’s profile and foster greater competition, but it also raises questions about the future of traditional football powerhouses and the balance of talent across leagues.

As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Theo Hernandez and Al-Hilal to see how this landmark transfer unfolds—and what it portends for the next chapter in the global game.