He’s regarded as one of the greatest footballers in the world.

And the children of Cayman now have the opportunity to learn from the best – former Chelsea striker Gianfranco Zola.
Youngsters could only marvel in amazement at his silky skills that have sent defenders all over the world into a spin.
The Italian legend was showing soccer tips to more than 160 young footballers at the  Academy Field, George Town as part of Digicel Italian Pro Soccer Camp.

The session began with the young players sitting down on the soccer pitch as members from the Academy Sports Club, who were organising the event, introduced Mr. Zola. “How many Chelsea fans are here today,” he asked the kids, as a flurry of hands went up in reply.

The football superstar, who once scored possibly the greatest ever goal in the history of football, has played for clubs such as Napoli, Parma & Chelsea.

Mr Zola was joined by Deniele Massaro who was part of the World Cup winning Italian team in 1982.

Soon, Mr. Zola would be teaching the kids techniques and tips as the kids divided into many different small groups, each with its own mini goalpost and net.

The kids faces shone as they got to play with their hero, making a day to remember for the rest of their lives.

Mr. Zola said he loved coming to Cayman, and this was his second visit. His friends here invited him over, he added.
He was keen to encourage more of the kids in football, “Nowadays football is accessible to everybody, you can watch it on TV and kids learn so much even from TV,” he said.

“To see Players from Cayman coming and playing in the Premier League would be a pleasure,” he added.

Getting involved in sport at a young age was very beneficial, Mr Zola continued. “All my life I’ve been involved in sport and it’s taught me so many great things, it taught me to be healthy, and to believe in myself, there are so many reasons to get involved,” he said.

“I believe that football is a great sport. I am a professional and have been playing this game for years so if I can help them and encourage them to train and play and also give them some advice and some tips, it would be good.”