Theo Hernandez lashes out at Milan: ‘No ambition or values’
Theo Hernandez has joined Al-Hilal, but left Milan with a vicious broadside at the current club hierarchy. ‘The direction and some decisions do not reflect the values or ambition that brought me here.’
The left-back was down to the final year of his contract at San Siro and was effectively forced out when the Rossoneri downright refused to offer him a new contract, especially after hearing his wage demands.
With Atletico Madrid failing to agree terms with Milan, Theo Hernandez went back on an earlier rejection, and eventually accepted the move to Al-Hilal for a reported €25m plus bonuses, with a salary package of €20m per season.
Theo Hernandez aims vicious message to current Milan chiefs
“After six years at this club, the moment has arrived to say goodbye,” wrote Theo Hernandez on Instagram in a long and often bitter statement.
“I arrived at Milan in 2019 with dreams, hunger and the enthusiasm of wearing a shirt rich with history. Today I leave after experiencing unforgettable moments, like winning Serie A and the Supercoppa Italiana, and above all having shared the locker room with extraordinary people.
“Thank you from the heart to my teammates, to every coach that believed in me, and in particular to Paolo Maldini, for his closeness, vision and leadership.”
There are some not so hidden messages here, from thanking not just every coach, but every coach “that believed” in him.
The reference to sacked director and club legend Maldini is also no coincidence, as it was when he was fired that many believe Milan started to lose their way.
“Thank you also to the Rossoneri fans, who were always present, in the wonderful and the difficult moments,” continued Theo Hernandez.
“Sensing your support was a privilege I will never forget and will always carry in my heart.”
In the final portion of his statement, the France international lashed out at the current club hierarchy.
“My decision to leave was not easy. I always knew where I wanted to stay, and Milan was always my priority. But, unfortunately, not everything depends on one person.
“The direction taken by the club and some recent decisions do not reflect the values, nor the ambition that brought me here. It is the moment to close a chapter and open another, different, but equally important for me.
“I leave with my head held high, because I always gave everything for this club, working with the maximum effort and sharing the same dreams as these fans.
“I leave with a full heart, and the hope that Milan can soon return to where they deserve to be. Milano will always be a part of me.
“Forza Milan Always.”