Speaking to Radio Sportiva, Semplici reflected on a transfer that surprised many observers given the widespread expectation that Palestra would head to San Siro after his impressive season in Sardinia.
"I hope it is the right choice for the boy, because it is certainly an important one," former Cagliari coach Semplici said.
"I read that he received strong guarantees from the manager, and perhaps that is what led him to go abroad, to a league that is unfortunately more important than the Italian one.
"It's a shame because I would have loved to see him at Inter Milan, which plays in a way that could have brought out his qualities even more."
The Italian coach was clear that the Premier League represented a significant development opportunity, despite his personal preference.
"These are experiences that are certainly decisive for growth," he said. "The English league at the moment is the reference point and there you always play against great players. This will ensure he grows, matures and improves. I just hope he gets that continuity that will allow him to achieve all of this."
Palestra caught the eye with a standout season on loan at Cagliari, earning recognition as one of Serie A's most impressive young defenders before Chelsea hijacked Inter's move for the right-back.
For Atalanta, the deal represents a significant financial return on a player developed through their academy system. Semplici's comments reflect a wider Italian debate about the country's inability to retain its brightest young talent in the face of Premier League financial power, a recurring theme in Serie A transfer windows.