Photo: Ank kumar / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Summer signing Marco Palestra says he has adapted quickly to life at Chelsea during the club's pre-season tour, crediting the squad's atmosphere and the coaching staff's approach under new manager Xabi Alonso.
"Coming to Chelsea was a big move for me, and it's one I'm so glad I made. It was always a dream of mine to come to the Premier League, and I chose Chelsea because for me, it's one of the best teams in the world," Palestra said.
The winger has spent much of the tour alongside fellow summer arrival Aaron Anselmino, with the pair socialising off the pitch as well as training together. Palestra also noted regular contact with Dario Essugo, Joao Pedro and Estevao as part of his integration into the squad.
"The coaching staff have allowed me to play, they tell me to play with confidence and freedom and to help both offensively and defensively," Palestra said, adding that he values the licence to take positive risks on the pitch.
Palestra said he is working on improving his English, noting he can currently get by in both English and Spanish. He described the squad's character as a key factor in his smooth transition.
"Chelsea is full of big players but first and foremost, good people. This is so important for the team culture and it's why it's made it easy for me to settle in," he said.
Chelsea are aiming to finish the pre-season tour strongly before the Premier League season begins.