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Stefano Pioli believes the contract renewal of Theo Hernandez epitomises Milan’s vision of returning “to the highest level”.
The France international, who had been due to be out of contract in July 2024, had been linked with a move to Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.
However, the defender ended speculation surrounding his future by putting pen to paper on fresh terms that will keep him at San Siro until the end of the 2025-26 season.
Hernandez has been a key figure for Milan since arriving from Real Madrid in July 2019, racking up 105 appearances across all competitions – a tally only matched by Franck Kessie during that period.
He has had 37 goal involvements in all competitions (19 goals, 18 assists), a tally bettered only by Zlatan Ibrahimovic (45) among Milan players since Hernandez’s first outing.
Indeed, only three defenders in Europe’s top five leagues have been directly involved in more goals across the same stretch: Achraf Hakimi, Robin Gosens (both 39) and Trent Alexander-Arnold (45).
Pioli feels the Rossoneri have made a statement of intent by keeping the attacking full-back at the club.
“It’s a beautiful sign of a club that has a vision for the present and the future,” the head coach said.
“Theo’s renewal is an important signal for the whole environment. Having players who feel this sense of belonging and a club that thinks about the present and the future is symbolic of a club that wants to return to the highest level.”
Following last weekend’s 2-1 victory in the Derby della Madonnina, Milan are one point behind leaders and city rivals Inter heading into the final 15 games of the Serie A season.
Pioli, who is aiming to guide the Rossoneri to a first Scudetto since 2010-11, has praised the growth in maturity demonstrated by his young squad.
“I am absolutely convinced that, beyond the other matches, the team is much more aware and mature than it was a year ago,” he added.
“But it is normal that this is so. We are very young, but we have gone through many experiences, and we have grown.
“We know that every game has an important specific weight and will have to be approached with great attention. The only thing that matters is tomorrow.”
