Photo by Mairo Cinquetti/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Photo by Mairo Cinquetti/NurPhoto via Getty Images
New Chelsea signing Marco Palestra has enjoyed a strong start to life at his new club, and now could be handed a further boost by Blues icon Gianfranco Zola.
Palestra was targeted specifically by Xabi Alonso to come in and bring an attacking force to the full-back position at Stamford Bridge.
His ability to play on both sides was initially mentioned as a strength, although Chelsea are now set to bring Pep Chavarria in to address their left-hand-side.
Chelsea player ratings vs Juventus
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Gianfranco Zola to work with new Chelsea signing Marco Palestra with Italy
A move to Chelsea is surely going to bolster Palestra’s chances of representing his country, although the majority of his appearances up to now have been for the U21s.
If he links up with that squad again, he will be under the leadership of Gianfranco Zola, who is set to join Italy’s new international project alongside Claudio Ranieri and Roberto Mancini.
Marco Palestra (L) of Chelsea FC and Mathys Tel (R) of
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Zola is in charge of the youth setup, meaning he could be working directly with the new Chelsea man during international breaks for the foreseeable future.
The Blues legend will be doing everything he can to help a nation who have not qualified for the World Cup since 2014.
The new Chelsea signing could play a key role in their rebuild, and at 21 years of age has the potential to be a star for a prolonged period of time.
Asmir Begovic's Chelsea XI for Fulham away
Asmir Begovic's Chelsea XI for Fulham away
Zola’s predictions for Chelsea under Xabi Alonso
It has been all change at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea over the summer, most notably in the managerial department following the hiring of Alonso.
Zola is expecting big things for the Blues under the Spaniard, leaning on the positive impact he had when in charge of Bayer Leverkusen.
Alonso is starting to get a look at the players he will have available to him, and has started Palestra in all three of Chelsea’s televised friendlies.
The Italian has shown off defensive and attacking potential, and is in with a great shout of starting the first game of the season against Fulham.