Chelsea's Marco Palestra shines in pre‑season win over Juventus

Twenty‑one‑year‑old Marco Palestra, signed by Chelsea for €60 million, made a strong impression in the club’s 2‑1 friendly victory against Juventus. He started at right‑back, played 65 minutes and provided attacking width, linking up with winger Geovany Quenda and receiving a key pass from Moisés Caicedo. The performance earned a 7.5/10 rating from the club’s post‑match analysis and was highlighted as evidence that he can compete for regular first‑team minutes under manager Xabi Alonso.

Palestra praised the intensity of the Premier League in a Sky Sport interview, saying he “can’t wait to start playing in England” and thanked the staff for helping his adaptation. He joins a right‑back group that already includes captain Reece James, Josh Acheampong and Malo Gusto, giving Alonso additional options on the flank.