rewrite this title Chelsea star issues Xabi Alonso verdict: ‘I don’t care about the system’

Chelsea’s squad are “so happy” with Xabi Alonso as the new head coach attempts to revive the club’s fortunes, new defender Marco Palestra says.

Right-back Palestra, who became one of eight signings made by Alonso this summer when the 21-year-old arrived for £47 million from Atalanta in July, believes the Spaniard’s preferred slow and patient passing style and vigorous pursuit of turnovers can transform the 10th-placed side in last season’s Premier League.

“I’m sure that if we follow the idea of Xabi and we improve every day, we can have a big season,” said Italy international Palestra.

“Chelsea is one of the best teams in the world, so [success] is normal for Chelsea.”

Chelsea squad ‘follow Alonso ideas’

Alonso established himself as one of the best young managers in the world by winning a domestic treble with Leverkusen in 2023/24, but his switch to Real Madrid last season proved brief and unsuccessful.

Among Alonso’s signings, the former Bayern, Real Madrid and Liverpool midfielder has spent £117m to bring in Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa and £52m to recruit Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace.

“Not only me, but all my teammates are so happy to be managed by Xabi Alonso,” said Palestra. “So we are happy and all thinking about becoming better every day.

“The system is good but I don’t care about the system. Xabi knows better than me and we follow his ideas.”

Marco Palestra: Chelsea ‘one of the best clubs’

Atalanta youth product Palestra barely featured for La Dea’s first team but impressed on loan at Cagliari last season.

“I’m really confident,” he said. “For sure it’s a big move, but I played [regulary] in Serie A, and Serie A is difficult to play in.

“I need to say thank you to the staff, Xabi and my teammates because, since the first day, they’ve helped me with everything inside and outside of football.

“I chose Chelsea because it’s one of the best clubs in football. [Alonso] gave me a lot confidence.”

Chelsea: Xabi Alonso on Marco Palestra

Alonso praised Palestra’s “great impact” after Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Juventus in Hong Kong on Wednesday

“You see his power,” said the 44-year-old. “He repeats [his runs] up and down, [showing] big stamina and quality in the last third.

“We are impressed with him and happy that we have Marco in the squad and that he gives solutions. He’s a flexible player, so it’s going to be very interesting to work with him.”

When does Chelsea’s 2026/27 season start?

Chelsea’s first competitive match under Alonso will be at Fulham in the Premier League. Here are the key details and where to watch in the UK.