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Theo Hernandez Saudi Arabia
Dec 14, 2022; Al Khor, Qatar; France defender Theo Hernandez (22) talks with FIFA referee Cesar Ramos during a pause in play against Morocco during the second half of a semifinal match during the 2022 World Cup at Al Bayt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Yukihito Taguchi-USA TODAY Sports
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How Much Will Theo Hernandez Earn In Saudi Arabia? Frenchman Enters Highest Paid Defender List

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Theo Hernandez has decided to end his time in Italy in favor of making a switch to Saudi Arabia, but how much will the Frenchman earn at Al Hilal?

Why Did Theo Hernandez Leave AC Milan?

Fabrizio Romano has recently uttered the three famous words over Theo Hernandez’s move to Saudi Arabia, as the Frenchman edges closer to a $27 million transfer to Saudi Pro League side, Al Hilal.

Hernandez leaves Milan after spending six-years in Italy, signing from Real Madrid in July 2019 and ends his time in Serie A as one of the best full-backs in soccer.

During his time with the Rossoneri, Hernandez has made 262 appearances, contributing to 79 goals (34G + 45A) and winning one Serie A title alongside a Supercoppa Italiana trophy.

The exact reason behind Hernandez’s exit has not been confirmed, however, his deal in Milan is set to expire in June 2026 and the Italian side may be looking to cash in before the defender becomes available as a free agent next summer.

Also, the French international has also failed to put in his best performances in recent times and his relationship with the fans is reportedly at its withering end.

Another possible factor could be the appointment of Massimiliano Allegri, as the veteran manager will take the reins in Milan for a second-time following Sergio Conceicao’s dismissal.

The Italian will be looking to make his own mark on the team this summer, after the club finished eighth in Serie A last season and are outsiders to win the league on Serie A betting sites.

Allegri commented on Hernandez’s exit in a recent interview and the former Juventus manager praised the Frenchman, but claimed Hernandez has ‘made his choice’.

Allegri said: “Theo Hernandez is a very great player. He has made his choice and I wish him the best for the future.” 

How Much Will Theo Hernandez Earn In Saudi Arabia?

Obviously, one of the biggest factors in a players decision to join a Saudi Pro League side is the huge salaries on offer, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane and Karim Benzema all earning over $1m a week.

According to reports, Hernandez will accumulate around $413,000 per week and this adds up to $21.5m each year, as the Frenchman agrees a multi-year deal in Saudi Arabia.

Interestingly, Hernandez will work under the eyes of a former rival in Simone Inzaghi, as the two battled it out on opposing sides in Milan for multiple years.

Milan are already looking into possible replacements for Hernandez this summer, as the Italian side are reportedly eyeing up Sergio Reguilon after the Spaniard entered the free agent market.

As for Hernandez, this move comes at an interesting time with the FIFA World Cup taking place in North America next year and not playing in Europe may impact his chances of competing for the French national side.

However, the 29-year-old is undoubtedly France’s leading option in the left-back department and will be hoping to cement his place even further next season.

Highest Paid Defenders 2025

  1. Kalidou Koulibaly (Al-Hilal): $752,389 per week / $39.12 million per year
  2. Aymeric Laporte (Al-Nassr): $531,253 per week / $27.63 million per year
  3. David Alaba (Real Madrid): $487,886 per week / $25.37 million per year
  4. Achraf Hakimi (PSG): $472,140 per week / $24.55 million per year
  5. Theo Hernandez (Al-Hilal): $413,462 per week / $21.5 million per year*
  6. Lucas Hernandez (PSG): $412,000 per week / $21.42 million per year
  7. John Stones (Man City): $340,000 per week / $17.68 million per year
  8. Reece James (Chelsea): $340,000 per week / $17.68 million per year
  9. João Cancelo (Al-Hilal): $331,979 per week / $17.26 million per year
  10. Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich): $325,257 per week / $16.92 million per year

* where Theo Hernandez will rank up on completion of Saudi Arabia move

Louis Fargher

Louis has been an avid soccer enthusiast for multiple years and boasts knowledge across several leagues in Europe - including Serie A. Louis holds a degree in Soccer Journalism and has produced content for multiple clubs in the United Kingdom.