Marco Palestra at Chelsea: Signing reveals why he chose Blues
Marco Palestra has opened up about his first weeks at Chelsea, revealing why he chose the Blues and how Xabi Alonso’s coaching staff are encouraging him to play with freedom.
The Italian has quickly settled into his new surroundings and believes Chelsea can be ready to start strongly in the Premier League.
Palestra joined Chelsea this summer before linking up with Alonso’s squad during their pre-season tour of Australia and Asia.
Speaking in a new Chelsea tour diary, the defender described his move to Stamford Bridge as a major step in his career.
He said playing in England had always been a dream and explained that he chose Chelsea because he considers them “one of the best teams in the world”.
The 21-year-old has also spoken positively about settling into the squad, spending significant time with Aaron Anselmino while building relationships with Dario Essugo, Joao Pedro and Estevao.
Marco Palestra interview 🔵
21yo spoke about his story, speed, family, choosing Chelsea over Inter Milan, Reece James' text, Xabi Alonso’s call, Davide Zappacosta’s advice, wanting to be the next “top” Italian at #CFC, etc 🇮🇹 https://t.co/1SdPyQLjGB
— Kieran Gill (@kierangill_DM) August 7, 2026
Perhaps the most encouraging comments for supporters concerned his role on the pitch.
Palestra said Chelsea’s coaching staff have encouraged him to play with “confidence and freedom”, while contributing both offensively and defensively.
That should suit a player capable of providing width and energy down the right as Alonso continues reshaping his defensive options.
Palestra’s arrival has already increased competition on that flank alongside Reece James and Malo Gusto. Chelsea are strengthening elsewhere too, with ReadChelsea reporting on Friday that a €21million agreement has been reached to sign Pep Chavarria.
For Palestra, however, the immediate priority is finishing pre-season strongly.
Chelsea face AC Milan in Jakarta on Saturday before travelling to Malaysia, giving Alonso further opportunities to assess his new signing before the Premier League campaign begins.
Palestra already sounds comfortable at Chelsea. More importantly, Alonso appears willing to give him the licence to show exactly what convinced the Blues to sign him.
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