Arsenal vs Chelsea – Why Palestra isn’t playing

Arsenal vs Chelsea – Why Palestra isn’t playing Marco Palestra was noticeably once again absent from Chelsea’s squad as they prepare to face off against London rivals Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium Palestra was not present in the visitors’ starting lineup , whilst Riccardo Calafiori starts at left-back for the hosts. It follows comments from the Italian at the Gran Gala del Calcio last week, where Palestra spoke to Sky Sport, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb . Palestra was named in the Serie A team of the year for the 25/26 campaign, for his performances during a loan spell with Cagliari. He impressed greatly with the Sardinian side and parent club Atalanta faced interest from Inter and then Chelsea for the Italy international. SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – JULY 28: Marco Palestra of Chelsea FC heads the ball during the Sydney Super Cup match between Western Sydney Wanderers and Chelsea FC at Accor Stadium on July 28, 2026 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images) Chelsea starlet Palestra: ‘I feel much better’ The defender opened with an update on his physical condition, telling the reporter ‘I’m fine. My recovery is still a few days away but I feel much better.’ Palestra was aiming to recover in time for this afternoon’s game but now looks as though he will return to the squad for the midweek EFL Cup game against Leeds or next weekend’s league game against a plucky Hull City side.