Marco Palestra
CHE
Right Winger
Wide Forward
Mar 3, 2005 (21)
Both
6'1"
176 lb
Still awaits return
Palestra (thigh) is out for Friday's match against Brentford.
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.
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.
Joins Chelsea through 2033
Palestra signed with Chelsea from Atalanta on a contract through 2033, the club announced.
Analysis: Palestra arrives at Stamford Bridge having been named Serie A Defender of the Year last season following an impressive campaign on loan at Cagliari, where he made 37 league appearances and stood out for his versatility across both flanks as a full-back and wing-back. The 21-year-old Italian international earned his senior debut for the Azzurri earlier this year before adding a second cap shortly after, underlining his rapid rise to the highest level of the game. He joins Chelsea ahead of pre-season under manager Xabi Alonso, giving the squad an exciting and versatile defensive option heading into the new Premier League campaign.
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