Theo Hernandez: “I couldn’t perform my best at Real Madrid, I was too young”

Theo Hernandez arrived at Real Madrid in the summer of 2017 after a controversial transfer from cross-town rivals, Atletico Madrid. The young fullback was seen as the eventual replacement for Marcelo after an impressive campaign on loan with Alaves. In 23 games for Real Madrid, Theo failed to meet expectations. There were questions around his attitude and the young player left on loan again the following season to Real Sociedad. With Marcelo, Sergio Reguilon, and Achraf all on the club’s books as potential competition in the left back role, Madrid decided to sell to AC Milan for $22 million in the summer of 2019.

In an interview with Onda Cero, the now 23-year-old spoke about his strong form with AC Milan, his time at Real Madrid, and his expectations for the future.

“I don’t know if they regret my departure in Madrid. I couldn’t do my best for Real Madrid, as I didn’t have the minutes. Without the minutes, you don’t have confidence. I arrived at a very young age, I have grown up now”, Theo explained.

When asked about Real Madrid’s draw with Atlanta and their recent form, Theo was very bullish on Real Madrid’s chances to advance. “Atalanta will change their tactics against Real Madrid, because if they don’t, Real Madrid will eat them alive,” Theo told Onda Cero. “In the derby, you saw it - Real Madrid washed Atletico Madrid.”

Finally the fullback was asked if he would ever return to Real Madrid. “Would I go back to Real Madrid? I don’t see myself as ever going back, if it’s my hands, I would stay at Milan forever. I am in the best moment of my career and I am very happy in Milan,” Theo concluded.