Marco Palestra, Chelsea's new £43 million right-back, has expressed his excitement about playing in the Premier League, calling it a 'wonderful world' ahead of his potential debut against Fulham on August 24. The 21-year-old Italian, who joined from Atalanta after an impressive loan at Cagliari, has already featured in pre-season friendlies against Tottenham and Juventus, and he is eager to experience the league's renowned intensity and physicality.
Palestra's Journey to Stamford Bridge
Palestra's move to west London came after a standout season at Cagliari, where his performances earned him his first two Italy caps and attracted interest from top clubs. The initial £43 million fee reflects his potential, and he has already made a positive impression on new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso. Speaking to Sky Sport Italia after Wednesday's loss to Juventus, Palestra said: 'It's a wonderful world, because the intensity and physicality are so high. 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.'
Alonso Praises New Signings
Xabi Alonso, who took over as Chelsea boss this summer, has lauded Palestra's impact during pre-season. 'Marco for sure is having a great impact. You see his power. He repeats up and down, big stamina, quality as well on the last third. So we are impressed with him,' Alonso said after the Juventus match. The Spaniard also praised fellow new signing Geovany Quenda, who is recovering from an injury: 'Happy with Geovany. After he missed the last week in Australia, he wasn't there but he came a couple of days ago and to play 45 minutes after the little injury, he's been very good.'
Academy Star Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli Impresses
Alonso has also been impressed by 16-year-old academy talent Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli, who started against Juventus. 'It's incredible – I don't even remember when I was 16 who I was playing against,' Alonso remarked. 'But he was playing against [Manuel] Locatelli, against Douglas Luiz, these experienced players. For sure it's something that he will remember in the future. You can learn so much, as what it takes to be a top-level player is not just about having good technique. It's about understanding the game, having composure with the ball, when to defend hard, many things that he still has to learn.'
Looking Ahead to the Premier League
With Chelsea's opening Premier League match against Fulham just weeks away, Palestra is focused on making his mark. His versatility and stamina have already caught the eye, and he is expected to play a key role in Alonso's system. The club's summer signings, including Palestra and Quenda, signal a new era at Stamford Bridge, with Alonso keen to develop young talents like Nicoll-Jazuli. As Palestra put it, he simply can't wait to get started in what he calls a 'wonderful world' of football.
