The following 2012–13 season, Hilton continued to be in the club's first team place, though been used in and out. Hilton played his first European match in over two years, in a 2–1 loss against Arsenal in the group-stage of the Champions League. Eventually, the club was eliminated from the Champions League after finishing fourth place. Following the departure of Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa to Newcastle United, Hilton was appointed as the club's new captain. On 1 March 2013, Hilton scored his first goal of the season, in a 2–0 win over Rennes. However, the club was unable to defend their league title as they surrendered it to title chaser Paris Saint Germain, who finished second last season. The club finished ninth place, far from missing out of European competitions. Despite this, Hilton signed a one-year contract with the club, until 2014.