Photo by Brendon Thorne/Getty Images
Photo by Brendon Thorne/Getty Images
As well as Moises Caicedo, Chelsea have also been hit by the fact that summer signing Marco Palestra has not been involved yet in the early stages of the 2026/27 season.
Caicedo’s absence has seen Xabi Alonso scramble for options in the middle of the park, with both Malo Gusto and Reece James being used in that position.
There has also been a change of role for Pedro Neto, who has slotted into life as a wing-back very nicely and impressed whenever he has started.
Chelsea v Juventus - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Edmund So/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Marco Palestra fitness update
The Portuguese star has remained a goal threat despite having his defensive duties, however the position looks perfect for Palestra, who was signed at the request of Alonso.
Despite not yet featuring for the Blues, the Italian is getting closer to being able to make his professional debut for his new club.
As per Mail Plus, Palestra has been involved in outdoor work, which is the final stage before returning to first team training under the new head coach.
With just two league games to go until the prolonged international break, it may be in Chelsea’s best interests to not allow him to feature until then, which is in around a month’s time.
Palestra impressed greatly playing for the Blues during pre-season, where he featured as both a full-back and wing-back on both sides of the defence.
While Caicedo’s absence has been noted as a huge blow for Chelsea so far this season, the fact that Palestra has not been available has hurt them in both attack and defence.
He was clocked as the fastest player in Serie A last season, and will certainly assist Alonso’s side on the counter attack, where they have hit opposition hard this season.
Chelsea’s lack of possession in games against Brighton and Fulham has been interesting, but their ability to turn defence into attack in an instant is a real strength which Palestra will only help with.