Chelsea star Kai Havertz has been compared with French icon Zinedine Zidane in “terms of skills, technique and overview and anticipating a situation.”
That is according to Bayern Munich legend Lothar Matthaus, who praised his fellow countryman for his intelligent style of play.
Chelsea splashed out a staggering deal worth around £71m to sign Havertz from Bayer Leverkusen in September 2020.
Havertz initially struggled at the Blues as he scored nine times and registered nine assists in 45 appearances across all competitions last season.
However, the 22-year-old attacking midfielder put his early Chelsea woes behind him by scoring the winner in the Champions League final against Manchester City.
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Havertz secured his place in Germany’s 26-man squad for Euro 2020 and started in his side’s opening two Group F matches against France and Portugal.
The former Leverkusen star rewarded Joachim Low’s faith in him as he scored in Germany’s sensational 4-2 win against Portugal on Saturday.
Now, Matthaus has showered Havertz with praise by making a bold comparison with ex-Real Madrid manager Zidane.
The 60-year-old German told Kicker: “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.”
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Matthaus claimed that the Germany international has “fine technique” and “plays intelligently and uses his body well.”
However, the 1990 Ballon d’Or winner suggested that “nuances will decide whether he will make it to the top it.”
Matthaus added: “He could score more goals and improve himself in the short movements with special training.
“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.”
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