Marco Palestra Eager to Begin Chelsea Career

Italy international Marco Palestra has voiced his enthusiasm about embarking on his Premier League journey with Chelsea, expressing his eagerness to get started and gratitude towards his new teammates following his appearance in a friendly against Juventus.

Having emerged from the Atalanta youth academy, Palestra was a subject of intense transfer interest this summer. Inter Milan believed they had secured his signature with a package nearing €50 million.

However, Chelsea ultimately presented a superior offer, adding €10 million in add-ons, and successfully persuaded the versatile defender to make London his new home.

Palestra is now undergoing his initial training sessions and participating in matches with the Blues, including their recent 1-0 defeat to Juventus in Hong Kong.

Palestra Thrilled by Chelsea Opportunity

Describing his first experience with Premier League-level training, Palestra told Sky Sport Italia, "It's a wonderful world, because the intensity and physicality are so high."

"I have to thank my teammates, the staff, and the coach, as they've been helping me from the first day with everything, both on and off the field. The organization has been perfect."

The 21-year-old primarily operates as a right wing-back but can also play as a full-back on either the right or left side of the defense.

He gained valuable experience during a loan spell at Cagliari last season before returning to Atalanta for his transfer to Chelsea.

"I'm happy; I can't wait to start playing in 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."

Juventus secured a 1-0 victory in their match against Chelsea, with Edon Zhegrova scoring the decisive goal from an assist by Kenan Yildiz.