Theo Hernandez’s departure in the summer of 2025 forced AC Milan into a rapid rebuild on the left side of their defense. Losing one of the most dynamic full-backs in Europe left a significant void, and the Rossoneri moved quickly to secure a short-term solution by signing Pervis Estupiñán from Brighton.
The Ecuadorian international arrived in Milan for a fee reported to be under €20 million, with expectations that his Premier League experience would translate into immediate impact at San Siro. However, as the season unfolded, it became clear that Estupiñán’s performances did not consistently meet those early expectations.
As a result, Milan quietly adjusted their approach. While the spotlight initially remained on the new signing, a familiar face from within the club began to grow in prominence — Davide Bartesaghi.
Estupiñán Struggles to Cement His Place, Bartesaghi Steps Forward
Estupiñán’s arrival came with a reputation built on intensity, athleticism, and top-level experience. Yet his performances lacked the dominance needed to fully secure the left-back position in Milan’s starting lineup. Inconsistency and adaptation issues opened the door for competition.
That opportunity was seized by Davide Bartesaghi, a product of Milan’s academy. The young defender played with composure beyond his years, gradually turning the left flank into his own territory. His reliability in defense, combined with intelligent positioning going forward, gave the coaching staff confidence to trust him in key matches.
So far this season, Bartesaghi has made 13 appearances for the first team across all competitions. His impact has gone beyond defensive duties, contributing two goals and one assist, a notable return for a player still early in his senior career.
Bartesaghi’s rise did not go unnoticed — even by the man whose departure triggered Milan’s search for a successor.
Theo Hernandez Sends His Praise from Afar
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Theo Hernandez shared his thoughts on Milan’s evolving left-back situation. From a distance, the former Rossoneri star expressed genuine admiration for Bartesaghi’s development.
“I want to say congratulations to Bartesaghi. He deserves everything that is coming to him,” Theo said.
The endorsement carried weight, coming from a player who once made the left flank his own at San Siro. Theo’s words reflected not only appreciation but also recognition of Bartesaghi’s growing importance within the Milan squad.
Theo Hernandez Also Salutes Luka Modrić’s Timeless Brilliance
During the same interview, Theo Hernandez also recalled a recent visit to Riyadh, where he met several Milan players ahead of their match against Napoli. Among the familiar faces, one figure stood out above the rest — Luka Modrić.
The Croatian midfielder joined Milan in the summer of 2025 after his contract with Real Madrid expired. Despite turning 40 years old, Modrić has remained a regular starter under Massimiliano Allegri, continuing to dictate tempo and provide leadership in midfield.
Theo, who previously played alongside Modrić at Real Madrid, was full of admiration for his former teammate.
“I hugged Modrić, who I played with in Madrid. He’s a genius — operating on a completely different level,” Theo stated.
Modrić’s influence has been vital for Milan, offering calmness, vision, and tactical intelligence that few players possess, regardless of age.
Milan’s Blend of Youth and Experience
The contrasting stories of Bartesaghi and Modrić highlight Milan’s current identity — a blend of emerging youth and timeless experience. While Bartesaghi represents the future of the club, Modrić continues to prove that football intelligence can transcend age.
As Milan navigate the post-Theo Hernandez era, the emergence of homegrown talent and the leadership of proven legends could prove decisive in shaping the Rossoneri’s next chapter.
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