Theo Hernandez criticised over Saudi move: ‘Depressing’

Theo Hernandez criticised over Saudi move: ‘Depressing’Milan star Theo Herandez is on the verge of joining Simone Inzaghi’s Al-Hilal, but ex-France international Éric Di Meco criticises his compatriot, describing his decision as ‘depressing.’Theo is on the verge of joining Al-Hilal in a deal exceeding €30m.AdvertisementIt’s a big deal for the Rossoneri given that the defender’s contract was due to expire in June 2026, making him available for a free transfer in just six months.Theo Hernandez set to join Al-HilalROME, ITALY – MAY 14: Riccardo Orsolini of Bologna is challenged by Theo Hernandez of AC Milan during the Coppa Italia Final match between AC Milan and Bologna at Stadio Olimpico on May 14, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)Theo is just the latest European star joining a Saudi team at the peak of his career and his decision was surely not appreciated by ex-France defender Di Meco.“It’s depressing to see a player like him give up on the sporting aspect at just 27,” Di Meco told Rothen s’enflamme via TMW.New Al-Hilal coach Simone Inzaghi has requested several big names from Europe, including Napoli-owned striker Victor Osimhen, but the Nigerian seems more reluctant to a move to the Saudi Pro League.AdvertisementAl-Hilal are one of the biggest clubs in Saudi Arabia and are participating in the Club World Cup. They may not be among the favourites to win the competition, but they shocked bettors in their competition’s debut last week by holding Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid to a 1-1 draw. Fans giving a go at predicting the Club World Cup winner usually join live blackjack tables with professional dealers as well, so don’t miss your chance, as several exciting underdogs are emerging from the Club World Cup.“Football is dominated by money, but it is still possible to join a sporting career with the financial aspect,” concluded Di Meo, talking about Theo’s imminent transfer.“I can understand going to Saudi Arabia at the end of the career, but not at 27.”Theo Hernandez held Atletico Madrid talksUDINE, ITALY – APRIL 11: Theo Hernández of AC Milan celebrates after scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Udinese and AC Milan at Stadio Friuli on April 11, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)Theo Hernandez had been in talks with Atletico Madrid as well, but the Colchoneros didn’t offer as much as Al-Hilal.AdvertisementInzaghi’s team offered Milan circa €30m, while Atletico would not put more than €15m on the table.Football Italia reported last week that Milan had been in talks with Arsenal for Oleksandr Zinchenko, who has been identified as an ideal replacement for Theo on the left flank.Theo joined Milan in a €22.8m deal from Real Madrid in the summer of 2019 and has won one Serie A title at San Siro, in the 2021-22 campaign.His final season with the Rossoneri was probably his poorest one in Italy, but the France international still collected five goals and six assists in 49 appearances across all competitions.Overall, Theo scored 34 goals in 262 games with Milan.