Champions League football for Milan next season?

It’s possible, if only the Rossoneri can climb eight places up the Serie A table.

So said Alessandro Nesta, after he completed a training session at Dubai’s Al Nasr Club on Friday.

The World Cup winner believes Milan have to overtake fifth-placed Fiorentina, who currently have 28 points - 10 more than his team - to secure a Champions League place next season.

"We're aiming for fourth place because that means we can go for the Champions League again," said Nesta.

"We think Fiorentina will be easier to catch than teams like Roma and Juventus. We will be focusing hard and are ready to play five games in a month when we get back."

And, the veteran defender feels it’s crucial for Milan to start winning matches in the Serie A, which will help them get into a winning momentum

"I don't know what went wrong," he said.

"We were under pressure from injuries but we are back at our best. Now that is behind us it is really important for us to do well in these next few games when the season restarts."

They will also face Premiership side Arsenal in the knock-out stages of the Champions League in February.

And with Milan looking to defend their Champions League crown, Nesta is not overly concerned about taking on the in-form Gunners.

"Of course Arsenal are looking very good at the moment and will take a lot of confidence from that," he said.

"But we are not worried about them. We'll be ready to play against them."

Goal.com