Marco Palestra

Analysis: Palestra is still working his way back from a thigh injury and will not return Friday, remaining on the sidelines. This continues his absence to begin the campaign, as he has yet to debut. He will now use the international break to recover, having around two weeks off.

Aug 24, 2026

Absent Monday

Palestra is out for Monday's match against Fulham due to fitness issues he suffered in training, according to manager Xabi Alonso. "They had minor setbacks during the week, so they were not fit to play tonight."

Analysis: Palestra was looking to be set for a possible starting role Monday, but has instead missed the team sheet, as the defender appears to be struggling with fitness. This is a rough blow for the player following his transfer, as he could miss more time with his status not completely clear. In the meantime, Josh Acheampong, Levio Colwill and Maxence Lacroix start at center-back for Xabi Alonso.