As featured on NewsNow: Football news

Capello says Roma midfielder Zaniolo a future Ballon d'Or winner

Former Italy coach Fabio Capello admits he's a fan of Roma midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo.

Capello says the youngster could be a future Ballon d'Or winner.

“Kaka didn't have the same strength as Zaniolo, as he was more technical and expressed himself better in the final third," Capello told Sky Sport Italia.

“This Roma talent has extraordinary physicality, power and pace, mixed in with quality. He has the potential not just to win the Golden Shoe in future, but something more.

“I am in love with Zaniolo, because he has everything at the highest level: power, quality and pace. There are players out there with a lot of potential, but not like him.

“Looking at the assist for Perotti against Juventus, to reach the edge of the area after running from midfield with the ball at his feet and still having the cool head to make that precise pass, that means he has great vision and a really precise feel for the ball.

“I don't see other young players as good as Zaniolo around at the moment, so yes, I think he has the potential to become a Ballon d'Or winner."

Video of the day:

Carlos Volcano
About the author

Carlos Volcano

×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

  1. Go Ad-Free
  2. Faster site experience
  3. Support great writing
  4. Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free
×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free