Alonso hails Chelsea signing Palestra as flexible, versatile after Milan win
Chelsea beat AC Milan 3-0 in a pre‑season friendly at GBK Stadium in Jakarta on Saturday, August 7, 2026. The match was part of Chelsea’s pre‑season preparations ahead of the 2026‑27 campaign. After the victory, head coach Xabi Alonso, the former Real Madrid manager, praised summer signing Marco Palestra, describing the 21‑year‑old defender as "very flexible and versatile" and saying he is "having a great impact" with a hunger to improve.
Alonso noted that Palestra played in a different position during the friendly, reinforcing his belief that the youngster can adapt across the back line. The signing from Atalanta earlier this summer adds tactical options for Chelsea as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League campaign.
Fans should watch how Palestra’s versatility influences squad selection in the coming weeks. Will his ability to fill multiple defensive roles earn him regular minutes, or will he remain a backup option as the season starts?