Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has heaped praise on new summer signing Marco Palestra following another spectacular performance in preseason against AC Milan.
The Italian international is gradually introducing himself to his new club in style with his stellar performances in preseason.
Palestra dazzled in Chelsea’s 6-4 victory over Western Sydney in Australia towards the end of July before following it up with another majestic display against Juventus in Hong Kong.
The former Atalanta defender was deployed on the opposite side to his preferred position against AC Milan on Saturday.
It proved to be a cakewalk for Palestra, and Alonso believes his new signing is “making a great impact” on the team.
“He is having a great impact,” said the Spanish coach after Chelsea’s 3-0 victory at GBK Stadium, secured through a brace from Joao Pedro and a stunning volley from midfielder Moises Caicedo.
“He has a hunger and desire to improve and give his best, and in every game he is getting better and better,” Alonso continued.
“He played in a different position today, but I knew from his time in Italy he is very flexible and versatile in his game. We are happy he is having such a good adaptation [to life at Chelsea].”
Palestra joined the Blues on a seven-year deal from Serie A side Atalanta for a fee a little under 50 million pounds.
The 21-year-old was voted Defender of the Year in the Italian league after the completion of the 2025-26 season.
