Potential Return to Italian Football
French international defender Theo Hernández is reportedly planning a return to European football, specifically to Italy’s Serie A, just a year after his lucrative transfer to the Saudi Pro League. According to recent reports, the former AC Milan star is being heavily linked with a move to Juventus this summer.
Hernández, who joined Al-Hilal in July 2025 following a successful tenure in Milan, has struggled to settle away from the European stage. His partner, Italian model and influencer Zoe Cristofoli, recently hinted at the couple’s desire to return to Italy, noting in social media exchanges that they still consider the country their true home.
Tactical and Financial Stakes
The potential transfer presents significant logistical and financial hurdles. Breaking a contract with a Saudi Pro League side typically involves complex buyout negotiations and salary adjustments to match European wage structures. However, for a club like Juventus, securing a player of Hernández’s pedigree—who remains a staple of the French national team—would represent a major tactical reinforcement.
As Hernández prepares for the 2026 World Cup, his focus remains on maintaining his competitive edge. A return to the tactical rigor of Serie A is viewed by analysts as a strategic move to ensure his continued selection for the French squad, alongside his brother Lucas Hernández.