Cagliari announce that Atlanta midfielder Marco Palestra joins the club on loan.
Club statement:
Cagliari Calcio is pleased to announce the acquisition of the rights to the sporting performances of footballer Marco Palestra, who is transferring from Atalanta BC on loan until the end of the 2025/26 sporting season.
Born in Buccinasco, class of 2005, he grew up in Atalanta's youth academy: after passing through the youth sector, he made his professional debut with the U23 team, in Serie C, with which he made his debut on 3 September 2023. On 7 October, he scored his first goal, decisive for the draw (1-1) against Albinoleffe. He will end the season with 41 appearances, 3 goals and as many assists. For him, there is also the satisfaction of making his debut with the first team - at just 18 years old - in the Europa League match against Raków Częstochowa.
Last season, he became a regular member of the first team: he came on in the UEFA Super Cup final against Real Madrid on August 14, 2024, and just a few days later made his Serie A debut in a 4-0 victory over Lecce. Another memorable date was his first Champions League match, on November 26, 2024, against Young Boys. In total, with the Bergamo side, he has 15 appearances in national and international competitions.
Currently boasts 3 matches with the U21 national team, after also having played in the Azzurri U19 and U20 selections.
Physically imposing, 186 centimeters tall, a great runner, Palestra is a full-back who, due to his great versatility, can be deployed on both the right and left. Skilled in both phases, thanks to good technique, dribbling, game vision, and tactical intelligence, he knows how to make himself dangerous going forward with his runs and his ability to deliver inviting crosses for his teammates.
Welcome, Marco!