Italian journalist backs Inter’s Palestra decision: ‘He is no Maldini’ | OneFootball

Italian football journalist Gianni Bezzi has defended Inter Milan’s cautious approach to the Palestra negotiations, insisting the club were right to take their time over a deal that has ultimately seen the young right-back choose Chelsea over the Nerazzurri.

Speaking to TMW Radio, with quotes via FCInter1908, Bezzi was measured in his assessment of a player who has attracted extraordinary attention this summer.

“I understand Inter’s behaviour too, they thought about it a lot before closing the operation,” he said.

“Is Palestra already a player of such quality that he can represent a turning point for Inter and Chelsea? For me he was someone who still needed a step of growth.

“It is a great exaggeration, Palestra is no Maldini. Maybe he will explode, but I have some doubts, and Inter were right to think carefully about it.”

FLORENCE, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Marco Palestra of Cagliari Calcio reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Cagliari Calcio at Artemio Franchi on January 24, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Palestra’s Chelsea choice driven by personal and financial factors as Inter avoid potential overpay

Bezzi acknowledged the personal dimension of Palestra’s decision while placing it in broader context.

“He made a personal choice to play in one of the most important leagues, but it was also an important economic choice,” he said.

For Inter, who had been on the verge of completing the deal before Chelsea intervened, the development is a blow, but Bezzi’s take suggests it may yet prove to be a blessing in disguise if the young talent’s development does not match the enormous expectations surrounding him.