Chukwueze can become world-class player —Zidane

Real Madrid coach, Zinedine Zidane, has said that Nigeria international, Samuel Chukwueze, has the potential to be among the best players in the world.

Youngster Chukwueze, who features for Villarreal in the Spanish LaLiga Santander, shone with the Super Eagles at the just-ended Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt, where the three-time African champions placed third.

Speaking to Tribunesport in New York recently, Zidane said Chukwueze would be one of the world’s best players in the future.

The former World Footballer of the Year who spoke to Tribunesport at the Adidas Store on 5th Avenue, Soho Square, New York last Thursday, spoke through an interpreter.

“Chukwueze plays like Arjen Robben,” the former Real Madrid of Spain player said. However, for Chukwueze to fully grow into the mould of Robben with as much success as the Dutch player attracted, ‘Zizou’ advises that the player must not lose focus on certain qualities.

“He must be focused, disciplined, and dedicated,” Zidane said.

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Zidane also spoke on the AFCON which took place for the first time this summer. According to him, this will allow players who play in the European leagues to be more focused, unlike when it was being held between January and February, when leagues in Europe will be in thick of action.

Meanwhile following Chukwueze’s stellar performance at the 2019 AFCON, Villarreal have placed €65million on the player. But English Premiership side Liverpool are worried over this development.

The European champions had been in talks with Villarreal for the services of Chukwueze before the Egypt 2019 tournament with a lower prize tag placed on the player then.

Tribunesport understands that Michael Edwards, Liverpool Sporting Director, is however hopeful that they can still beat down the amount Villarreal are demanding.