Since his arrival at Milan in the 2019/20 season, Theo Hernández has become one of the most recognizable faces of the Rossoneri's resurgence. The numbers prove it: according to Opta, no defender has had a greater impact in Serie A in recent years. A remarkable 55 goal contributions — 31 goals and 24 assists — testament to an extraordinary talent for a full-back.
But if numbers don’t lie, feelings shouldn’t be ignored either. And unfortunately, those tell the story of a relationship that has deteriorated in recent months. Last season was emblematic: uncharacteristic technical errors, occasional outbursts of frustration, but above all, a growing detachment — also due to the difficulties with the two coaches who came and went, first Fonseca, then Conceição. It no longer felt like his environment, and the shirt began to weigh on him more than it inspired him.
Despite everything, Theo finished the season with respectable numbers: 5 goals and 6 assists, which is far from insignificant in a team undergoing transition. Yet there was often the sense that this was a 50% version of Theo, a distant shadow of the leader admired during the Scudetto-winning season and that European run.
With a touch of bitterness — and, if you like, disappointment — it’s fair to say: for him and for Milan, the time has come to part ways. Not out of blame or resentment, but out of respect for a cycle that has come to an end. A motivated Theo, in a new environment, can once again be one of the best full-backs in Europe. Milan now needs a new profile — someone who brings enthusiasm and embraces the project with the same hunger Theo had when he first arrived.
It will be a painful farewell, for the fans and for the club. But sometimes, in order to grow, you have to know when to say goodbye to those who gave you so much. "Merci, Theo."
Source: Antonio Vitiello for Milannews.it
