CorSport: Differences noticeable in defence as Milan are significantly better than last year

"Last season, AC Milan had several issues across the pitch and, in fairness, off of it as well. Now, those problems are fading. Looking back at the situation 12 months ago, Milan had just spent a fortune in the January mercato in an attempt to settle the club. Throughout the season, protests had been regular, whilst the Rossoneri were also struggling to compete on the field."

"The Scudetto was a distant thought and it seemed that a place in the Champions League was unlikely. Then, you had the fact that the Diavolo were on their second coach of the season and already cracks were appearing. It was certainly problematic. Defensive upgrade Fast forward 12 months and the club looks much different, in a good way. There is solidity on the sidelines and the Champions League seems a much more likely possibility."

"As Corriere dello Sport writes, via MilanPress, the differences are tangible, but they are perhaps felt the most in defence. At this stage last year, Milan had conceded 23 goals, whilst the current squad have only conceded 17. If those numbers were repeated now, then Allegri's side would be the worst defenders in the European fight, whereas they currently rank second."

Last season AC Milan struggled on and off the pitch, with protests, a costly January mercato, and frequent managerial changes. The team spent heavily in January to stabilize the club but still underperformed, making the Scudetto seem distant and Champions League qualification unlikely. The squad reached its second coach of the season and showed clear signs of instability. Over the following 12 months the club regained clarity and cohesion. Defensive performance improved markedly, conceding 17 goals compared with 23 at the same stage last year. The defensive solidity under Allegri provides a foundation that increases prospects for Champions League qualification and the Scudetto.

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