Chelsea manager Roberto di Matteo has said that the star midfielder Eden Hazard can become the next Gianfranco Zola. The Italian is regarded as one of the greatest players to have played for the club. However, Roberto di Matteo believes that the club might have found the next Gianfranco Zola in the form of the 21-year-old Belgian midfielder Eden Hazard. The former Lille playmaker began life in English football with a 2-0 win over Wigan during the weekend. The midfielder was at his best in the match, as he set up both the goals for Chelsea in the match.

The defender Ivanovic scored the first goal for Chelsea in the second minute, while Eden Hazard soon won a penalty that was converted by Frank Lampard. The three points and the clean sheet made it a perfect day for Chelsea, whose pre-season friendlies were not exactly up to the standard. Speaking after the match, Roberto di Matteo has said that he not surprised about the performance put in by the Belgian defender because he is already aware of his quality and talent. Eden Hazard was signed by Chelsea for £ 32 million, while the youngster is currently one of the high paid players at £ 150,000 per week.

“It’s difficult to compare players. Gianfranco was a wonderful talent, an artist I would say. Eden might become an artist as well. But, after one game, it’s probably a bit too early. He’ll be fine. I don’t have any concerns about that. He’s got enough qualities to get away from people. He’s a strong man, a strong boy. He’s strongly built as well. We spoke during pre-season about the Premier League. He knows how to handle himself,” said Roberto di Matteo ahead of the match with Reading on Wednesday night.