AC Milan have definitely seen better times. Struggling to break into Serie A's top ten, they will struggle to make the Europa League next season let alone the Champions League, meaning their 4-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid - one of their worst defeats in Europe by far - will probably be the last time we see the Rossoneri for some time amongst Europe's elite.
AC Milan are clearly a side in transition although whether Clarence Seedorf will be the man to see them into a new era of success remains to be seen as Milan seem to be struggling just as much as their owner, Silvio Berlusconi.
So how can Forza Milan be a force in Italian and European football again? Here are my thoughts.
1. Fix the defence
The average age of Milan's defenders is well into the 30s. In Paolo Maldini and Franco Baresi's time, this would have been considered a blessing and a good omen. However, football has evolved and the game has become much quicker and more physical, meaning a younger defence is vital to be competitive. Young Italian internationals and fullbacks, Mattia de Sciglio and Ignazio Abate will certainly be the backbone of the future for Milan but the centre of the defence needs to be worked on with Milan needing to start phasing out the aging Philippe Mexes and Daniele Bonera.
2. Fix the midfield
Kaka is back and should be back for some time to partner Keisuke Honda in a Milan midfield that has been a major problem all season. Kaka's experience will be key as Milan rebuild a midfield that used to be one of their strengths. Andrea Poli has the potential to be a key player in the midfield, being able to sit back to let the more attack minded Kaka and Honda to go forward, but in order to sustain a season-long challenge, Milan will have to keep buying to strengthen.
3. New goalkeeper
Milan seem to love their team old, and nowhere is this epitomised but with the man in goal - Christian Abbiati has been around for ages having served his time as deputy to former Brazil number 1, Dida, but is still quite solid. However, Milan should consider the future - Mattia Perin at Genoa has been quite impressive and there are plenty of young keepers floating around in Serie A.
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