Brazil defender Danilo has told Croatian media that he has warned his international teammates about the prospect of facing Chelsea’s Mateo Kovacic in the next round of the World Cup.
The tournament favourites secured their place in the quarter-finals with a sensational 4-1 victory over South Korea.
A scintillating first half was more than enough for Brazil, with Chelsea’s Thiago Silva receiving his fair share of the praise.
Croatia meanwhile had a much tougher time with their Asian opponents. Japan forced the European’s to a penalty shootout, where their quality eventually shone through.
Nevertheless, Danilo has warned his teammates of the quality their upcoming opponents have to offer, labelling Kovacic as one of the four danger men.
He said: “They are a team with extremely strong players such as Modrić , Brozović , Perišić and Kovačić.
“I know them very well, they are used to big matches and it will certainly be difficult to deal with them. That’s why we have to prepare well.”
Danilo warns teammates of Kovacic
The Chelsea man has enjoyed what has mostly looked like he is beginning to get back to full fitness, playing in all four games at the World Cup so far.
Graham Potter has already claimed that the 28-year-old has been dealing with an injury for the whole season, seeing him not at 100% since pre-season.
Interestingly, Danilo didn’t mention Josko Gvardiol as one of Croatia’s key players.
The 20-year-old has arguably been the best defender at this World Cup, showing an exceptional ability in spite of his young age.
The Blues were linked with a move to sign the RB Leipzig man in the final days of this summer.
While a move didn’t materialise, reports have claimed the club still see him as a priority target for the upcoming transfer windows. Then again, they will almost certainly face stiff competition for his signature.
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