Marco Palestra has sat down with Gazzetta dello Sport during the international break.

The rapid Italy U21 right-back, currently on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta, had high praise for big names at his parent club, while also addressing the young Azzurri set-up.

Silvio Baldini’s side recently toppled Sweden 4-0 at Cesena’s Stadio Dino Manuzzi. Palestra wasn’t surprised by the big score line inflicted, saying, “I think it was clear back in September that we were a good group. I have to say that our strength is truly our unity because we get along really well.

“We all go the extra mile for each other, and that helps us feel less tired. We’re a good team, both in terms of our play and, above all, in terms of our mentality and character.”

This togetherness was clear with the fourth and final goal. Following a double from Niccolo Pisilli and one from Francesco Camarda, Simone Pafundi handed the ball to Cesena’s own Tomasso Berti to convert on home soil.

“We knew Tommy was playing in his stadium, so it was definitely an even more important match for him. Pafundi did well to give him the ball, and we all cheered Berti on to take the penalty afterwards. I don’t even know if he wanted to… But Pafu threw the ball at him, so he couldn’t back out.”

The 20-year-old Atalanta loanee has shown great potential so far, with a two-footed nature and great pace and agility. When asked about other Serie A pros around him, his answer reflected his own growth.

“Lautaro, Bastoni, even Dimarco. Let’s say Inter is the team that has impressed me the most with their play. But I have to say that training with Ederson and Lookman also helps a lot; they’re on another level.”

Palestra was also asked about the decision to join Cagliari and he expressed satisfaction.

“I thought I needed to have a year of consistency. I feel like the more I play, the more I can express my qualities. Cagliari is a wonderful place: the fans, the teammates, the coach, they’re all great, I have to say. I’ve found a great atmosphere.” 

A host of major Serie A sides were linked with the defender in the summer but couldn’t match Atalanta’s price-tag. It should come as a positive to La Dea, who will be keeping a close eye on his progress.