Theo Hernández Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 22, 2025
As the football world enters 2025, few players embody the evolution of the modern full-back more perfectly than Theo Hernández.
Once seen as a raw, attack-minded defender with defensive vulnerabilities, the French left-back has transformed into one of the most complete, influential, and feared players in world football—and the undisputed leader of AC Milan’s resurgence.
From a promising youngster in Marseille to a Ballon d’Or contender and Champions League contender, Hernández’s journey is a story of reinvention, resilience, and relentless excellence.
Then: The Early Years – A Prodigy in the Shadow (1997–2020)
1. Roots in Marseille and the Path to Real Madrid
Born on October 18, 1997, in Marseille, France, Theo Hernández came from footballing bloodlines—his older brother Lucas Hernández is a World Cup-winning defender for Bayern Munich and France. Theo joined Olympique de Marseille’s youth academy at age 13, showcasing explosive pace, technical flair, and an attacking instinct rare for a defender.
In 2017, at just 19, he made his professional debut for Marseille and quickly drew attention for his dribbling, overlapping runs, and long-range shooting.
His performances earned him a €24 million transfer to Real Madrid in 2017, a move that placed him in one of the most prestigious clubs in history—but also in a position of immense pressure.
2. Struggles at Real Madrid – Talent vs. Opportunity
At Real Madrid, Theo faced stiff competition from Marcelo, the legendary left-back, and later Ferland Mendy. Though he showed flashes of brilliance—scoring against Barcelona in El Clásico in 2018—he was often criticized for defensive lapses and inconsistency.
By 2019, he had made only 37 appearances in three seasons. Real Madrid, seeking stability, decided to move on.
Related: Victor Osimhen Then and Now
The Turning Point: A Move That Changed Everything (2020)
1. Transfer to AC Milan – A New Beginning
In September 2020, AC Milan signed Theo Hernández for €18 million—a deal that would go down as one of the greatest value transfers of the decade.
At the time, Milan was rebuilding under Stefano Pioli, emerging from years of decline. Theo arrived not as a star, but as a project—a full-back with immense potential but unproven consistency.
2. Rapid Evolution Under Pioli
Under Pioli’s 4-2-3-1 system, Theo was given freedom to attack, while being coached to improve defensively. He responded with a meteoric rise:
- Became the most offensively productive left-back in Serie A
- Scored crucial goals, including game-winners against Inter and Juventus
- Developed a lethal long-range shot and a knack for arriving in the box
By 2021–22, he was instrumental in AC Milan’s first Serie A title in 11 years, forming a dynamic partnership with Rafael Leão on the left flank.
Related: Marcus Rashford Then and Now
Now: The Complete Player and Milan’s Captain (2025 Outlook)
1. Leadership and Captaincy
As of 2025, Theo Hernández is no longer just a player—he is AC Milan’s captain and spiritual leader. Following the departure of veteran leaders like Giacomo Bonaventura and Zlatan Ibrahimović’s retirement, Theo stepped up with maturity and passion.
He wears the #4 jersey—a symbol of responsibility—and leads by example with his work rate, intensity, and commitment.
2. Ballon d’Or Recognition and Global Stardom
In 2024, Theo finished in the Top 10 of the Ballon d’Or rankings—a historic achievement for a full-back and the first Milan player since Kaká (2007) to be seriously considered.
His case was built on:
- Serie A Player of the Year (2023, 2024)
- UEFA Champions League Finalist (2023)
- Consistent goal and assist numbers (15+ goals and 20+ assists in 4 seasons)
- Defensive solidity and tactical intelligence
In 2025, he is widely regarded as the best left-back in the world, surpassing players like Alphonso Davies and Andrew Robertson.
3. Tactical Mastery: The Modern Full-Back Redefined
Theo’s game in 2025 reflects the pinnacle of the modern full-back:
- Explosive pace and dribbling – consistently beats wingers 1v1
- Goal threat – scores from outside the box, penalty areas, and set-pieces
- Playmaking ability – among the top assist-makers in Europe
- Improved defensive discipline – fewer positional errors, stronger 1v1 defending
- Leadership in build-up play – often drops deep to initiate attacks
He thrives in AC Milan’s high-pressing, fast-transition system, functioning as both a defensive anchor and an attacking catalyst.
4. Key Role in Milan’s Champions League Push
In the 2024–25 UEFA Champions League, Theo has been central to Milan’s deep run—scoring in the quarterfinals and delivering a man-of-the-match performance against Manchester City in the semifinals. With Milan on the brink of their first European final since 2007, Theo is seen as the heartbeat of the team.
International Career: France’s First-Choice Left-Back
1. From Benchwarmer to Starter
Once overshadowed by Lucas Hernández and Ferland Mendy, Theo seized his opportunity after Lucas’ injury in 2022. His performances for Milan forced Didier Deschamps to make him France’s starting left-back.
He played a key role in:
- UEFA Euro 2024 – France reached the final, with Theo providing 3 assists
- 2022 FIFA World Cup – rotational role, but impactful in knockout stages
- 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers – already a fixture in the starting XI
2. A New Era for Les Bleus
With the retirement of older defenders on the horizon, Theo is now seen as a long-term leader in France’s backline. His attacking prowess complements the defensive solidity of players like Jules Koundé and Dayot Upamecano.
Related: Alphonso Davies Then and Now
Personal Life and Character
Theo is known for his passion, loyalty, and emotional connection to AC Milan. He lives in Milan with his partner, Mélissa—a French fitness influencer—and frequently shares moments of family life, training, and fan interactions on social media.
Despite his fame, he remains grounded, often crediting his success to:
- His brother Lucas
- Coach Stefano Pioli
- The support of Milan’s fans
He’s also active in charity work, supporting youth football programs in France and Italy.
Related: Alejandro Garnacho Then and Now
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Theo Hernández represents a new generation of full-backs—athletic, intelligent, and capable of winning games single-handedly. He’s helped revive AC Milan’s global prestige, becoming a symbol of the club’s return to elite status.
His journey also reflects a broader shift in football:
- Full-backs are now primary creators and scorers
- Consistency and evolution matter more than early hype
- Loyalty and growth at one club can lead to legendary status
In Italy, he’s affectionately called “Il Fenomeno di Sinistra” (The Phenomenon of the Left), and murals of him adorn the streets of Milan.
Conclusion: Theo Hernández – Then and Now (2025)
- Then: A talented but inconsistent left-back, discarded by Real Madrid, searching for a place to prove himself.
- Now: AC Milan’s captain, Ballon d’Or contender, France international, and one of the most complete players in world football.
Theo Hernández’s story is not just about talent—it’s about redemption, growth, and seizing a second chance. He didn’t just adapt to Serie A; he conquered it. He didn’t just play defense; he redefined it.
As AC Milan marches toward European glory in 2025, one man leads the charge—
Theo Hernández: defender, destroyer, creator, leader.
🔥 “They said I was too offensive. Now, I’m the reason we win.” – Theo Hernández
Related: Darwin Núñez Then and Now