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Official statement

Google currently does not take into account the hreflang attribute when placed on A elements (links), even though this practice is used by sites like Wikipedia.
9:29
🎥 Source video

Extracted from a Google Search Central video

⏱ 16:18 💬 EN 📅 28/11/2024 ✂ 9 statements
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📅
Official statement from (1 year ago)
TL;DR

Google ignores the hreflang attribute on A tags. No effect on SEO, unnecessary for links. Focus your efforts elsewhere.

What you need to understand

What is the role of the hreflang attribute? <\/h3>

The hreflang attribute indicates to Google the language and geographic targeting of a page. It is essential for multilingual sites to ensure that content is served to the right audience.<\/p>

When used correctly, it optimizes international visibility. But using it on A tags is pointless.<\/p>

  • Specifies the target language<\/li>
  • Enhances international user experience<\/li>
  • Ignored in link tags<\/li><\/ul>

    Why does Google ignore this attribute on A tags? <\/h3>

    A tags are designed for links, not for page content. Google focuses on content with hreflang to identify the correct audience.<\/p>

SEO Expert opinion

Does this statement reflect observed practices? <\/h3>

Yes, it confirms what SEO experts observe on the ground. There's no need to waste resources adding hreflang to A tags. Its ignorance by Google is not surprising.<\/p>

What are effective alternatives? <\/h3>

Use hreflang in link tags to ensure SEO impact. Google reads and understands them. It's unnecessary on A.<\/p>

Could Google change this behavior in the future? <\/h3>

[To be verified]<\/strong> No current indication that Google will change direction. But stay vigilant and monitor your SEO sources.<\/p>

Practical impact and recommendations

What should I do concretely? <\/h3>

Ensure that the hreflang attribute is used in link tags in the source code. This allows Google to recognize the targeted pages for international users.<\/p>

How can I check that my site is compliant? <\/h3>

Analyze your pages with SEO tools capable of checking hreflang tags in the header.<\/p>

  • Audit existing hreflang tags.<\/li>
  • Ensure hreflang is excluded from A tags.<\/li>
  • Check the Sitemap file for correct hreflang directives.<\/li><\/ul>
    These adjustments may require expertise and precision. Consulting an SEO agency may be wise to maximize your multilingual potential.<\/div>

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Peut-on utiliser hreflang sur d'autres elements ?
Oui, sur les balises link et dans les headers HTTP.
Cela affecte-t-il mon classement SEO ?
Non, utiliser hreflang sur A est ignore par Google.
Comment hreflang aide-t-il au SEO ?
Il informe Google sur la langue et le public cible, ameliorant l'internationalisation.

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