Xabi Alonso has delivered an emphatic six-word verdict on Chelsea signing Marco Palestra after another impressive performance against AC Milan.
Palestra continued his encouraging start to life at Chelsea during Saturday’s 3-0 victory in Jakarta, helping the Blues record their first clean sheet of pre-season.
The 21-year-old has only been working with Alonso for a matter of weeks following his summer move from Atalanta, but his new manager already appears delighted with what he has seen.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website after the AC Milan win, Alonso said: “He is having a great impact.”
Those six words were followed by even more praise as Alonso highlighted Palestra’s attitude and rapid development.
Chelsea committed a significant fee to sign the Italy international this summer, with the overall package widely reported to be worth around £47million including add-ons.
ReadChelsea recently detailed Palestra’s first impressions of life at Chelsea, including how Alonso’s coaching staff have encouraged him to play with confidence and freedom.
Xabi Alonso impressed by Marco Palestra versatility
Palestra has predominantly operated from the right during his young career, but Alonso gave him a different assignment against Milan.
The Italian was moved across to the left and still provided a regular attacking outlet while contributing defensively to Chelsea’s clean sheet.
Alonso praised Palestra’s “hunger and desire to improve” and said the youngster is getting “better and better” with every appearance.
That versatility could become particularly valuable once the Premier League season begins.
Alonso showed during his time at Bayer Leverkusen how important flexible wing-backs can be within his system, and Palestra’s performance against Milan offered further evidence that he can handle responsibilities on either flank.
Chelsea were much improved as a team in the 3-0 victory.
João Pedro scored twice before Moisés Caicedo added a spectacular third, while Alonso’s side looked considerably more secure without the ball than during earlier pre-season matches.
Palestra played his part in that improvement.
There will be tougher examinations once competitive football begins, and an encouraging pre-season does not guarantee an immediate starting place.
Yet Alonso’s assessment is significant.
Chelsea have invested heavily in one of Italy’s most highly rated young defenders. Barely weeks into his Stamford Bridge career, his manager already believes Palestra is making a major impact.
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