Chelsea new signing Marco Palestra says he cannot wait to begin his Premier League career and has welcomed the physical intensity of English football.
The 21-year-old Italian defender joined Chelsea from Atalanta in July in a deal reportedly worth around £43 million, becoming the first signing of the Xabi Alonso era at Stamford Bridge.
Palestra has since been settling into life in west London and has impressed during Chelsea’s preparations for the new season, with the versatile full-back eager to test himself against Premier League opposition.
Speaking after Chelsea’s recent pre-season friendly against Juventus, Palestra highlighted the intensity and physicality of English football and said he was looking forward to experiencing the Premier League for himself
‘It’s a wonderful world, because the intensity and physicality are so high,’ Palestra told Sky Sport Italia after Wednesday’s loss to Juventus.
‘I’m happy, I can’t wait to start playing the Premier League, as it’s so exciting. I know every game there is exciting, whether it’s against a big club or not.
‘I can’t wait to get started, it’s wonderful.’
Palestra arrives at CHELSEA after a breakthrough campaign in Serie A, having spent last season on loan at Cagliari.
He made 37 league appearances for the Sardinian club and established himself as one of the division’s standout young defenders, earning the Serie A Defender of the Year award.
His performances also led to senior international recognition, with Palestra making his Italy debut during the World Cup qualifying play-offs in March.
CHELSEA see the player as a versatile option capable of operating on either flank, while his pace, dribbling ability and physical attributes are considered particularly suited to Alonso’s tactical approach.
Palestra has already spoken positively about his conversations with Alonso and said the manager’s ideas played an important role in his decision to move to Stamford Bridge.
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