Chelsea midfielder Kai Havertz has been compared to World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane by Germany icon Lothar Matthaus.
The Blues midfielder took a while to really get going at Stamford Bridge following his big-money arrival at Stamford Bridge from Bayer Leverkusen.
However, he still ended the season in very positive form having netted nine goals and notched nine assists in all competitions - a count which includes the winning strike in the UEFA Champions League final victory against Manchester City.
The Chelsea man continued that on the international stage with a starring role in Germany’s 4-2 thumping of European Championship holders Portugal at the Allianz Arena on Saturday, netting the fourth international goal of his career.
As a result, he has been hailed by Matthaus and even compared to Zidane thanks to his style of play.
Talking to Kicker, the former German midfielder said: "I compare him to Zinedine Zidane in terms of skills, technique and overview and anticipating a situation.
"Zidane didn't seem quick, but it was when he hit the ball. Havertz can do that too."
Despite the lofty comparison, the ex-Bayern Munich man still believes that the 22-year-old has a considerable amount of learning to do.
He has suggested that Havertz could become one of the best players in the world if he works on the small details within his game.
“He could score more goals and improve himself in the short movements with special training,” Matthaus continued.
"He has a good eye, good ball control, good positional play, fine technique. In addition, Havertz plays intelligently and uses his body well.
"Havertz is on the way, but nuances will decide whether he will make it to the top, whether he will be an excellent player or just a very good one."
