AC Milan's Hakan Calhanoglu said Tuesday's shock 4-2 win over Juventus is proof that they have the quality to return to the club's glory years and challenge for the Serie A crown.
In a thriller at San Siro, the Rossoneri found themselves down 2-0 shortly after halftime but rallied to claim maximum points courtesy of goals from Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Franck Kessie, Rafael Leao and Ante Rebic.
- Stream Serie A games on ESPN+
- Ronaldo vs. Ibra: Zlatan wins what may be last battle of two greats
- What did you miss? The latest from Europe's top leagues
Despite the win, Milan is still 26 points behind Juventus for the Serie A with just seven matches left to play in the season.
But their recent run of four wins and a draw since the restart of the campaign -- which included an impressive victory over second-place Lazio, suggests Milan do have what it takes to match it with Serie A's frontrunners.
"Now we've seen we can beat Lazio, who are in front of us in second place, and we've beaten Juventus, we have to say to ourselves that this is our part to play to stay there," Calhanoglu told ESPN. "Milan have to be first or second. Now people see Milan winning big games, they say 'this is Milan.'
"Even us players say 'this is Milan'."
While football continues to be played behind closed doors, Calhanoglu marvels at what a reception San Siro would have when supporters return if the Rossoneri can sustain their success.
"Imagine if we'd played a game like that with our fans," added Calhanoglu. "Imagine the San Siro with our fans behind us. If we can play in the Champions League like that, it would be crazy because our fans are incredible."
