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. Even the Scudetto seems like a not-too-distant dream.

As Corriere dello Sport writes, via MilanPress, the differences are tangible, but they are perhaps felt the most in defence.

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

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.

Under the Italian, it has been a case of going back to basics, using the defence as a literal foundation. A simple concept, but a clear one. Clarity has certainly been found with the new coach, which again was missing last year and that goes for his ideas and personnel.