Chelsea’s new £47 million full-back, Marco Palestra, has emerged as one of the standout performers during pre-season.
The 21-year-old Italy international is gearing up for a match against AC Milan on Saturday, having participated in all three of Chelsea’s pre-season games.
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Palestra made the move to the Blues despite interest from Inter Milan, and he recognizes the legacy of Italian players at Stamford Bridge, including legends such as Gianfranco Zola, Gianluca Vialli, and Jorginho.
“I know Zola played for both Cagliari and Chelsea,” Palestra remarked, speaking in English at the team’s hotel in Sydney. “He’s a legend, and I hope to achieve what he did at Chelsea. I’ve spoken with Davide Zappacosta, and he always had positive things to say about playing here. I want to become the next significant Italian player at the club.”
Palestra joined Chelsea from Atalanta, having spent the previous season on loan at Cagliari, a move he describes as “life-changing.” During that campaign, he earned the title of Serie A Defender of the Year and registered the highest sprint distance and the most dribbles among defenders in the league.
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New manager Xabi Alonso reached out to Palestra while Chelsea secured his signature, envisioning him in both full-back and wing-back roles. “He shared his expectations and ideas with me,” Palestra noted. “It wasn’t just about football—he appreciates my versatility since I can play on both flanks and adapt to different positions on the field.”
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“Our conversation was engaging, and I felt very pleased with it. Other clubs showed interest, but when Chelsea came calling, I knew I wanted to join one of the biggest clubs in the world.”
Though captain Reece James has yet to join the pre-season squad, he sent Palestra a “beautiful message,” offering support and advice.
Palestra portrays a humble attitude, identifying himself as a Serie A fan and a follower of Cristiano Ronaldo. He concludes by reflecting on how joining Chelsea fulfills his “dream.”