Maurizio Sarri hailed Eden Hazard as the 'best player in Europe' after his hat-trick helped Chelsea record an emphatic victory over Cardiff City.
Newly promoted Cardiff took the lead at Stamford Bridge when a well-worked free-kick culminated in Sol Bamba volleying past Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Chelsea led 2-1 at half-time, however, as Belgium superstar Hazard scored twice in seven minutes before the break.
The 27-year-old completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot before Willian added a fourth for Chelsea, who maintained their 100% start to the Premier League season.
Asked whether Hazard is the best player in the Premier League, Sarri said: 'Maybe.
'I thought he was one of the best players in Europe, but now I change my mind. He is the best.'
Victory for Chelsea means they have started a Premier League season with five straight wins for the first time since 2010.
The Blues also jumped to the top of the league on goal difference, but Sarri reiterated his belief that the title race will be contested between Manchester City and Liverpool.
'I cannot change my mind for one match. At this moment Liverpool and Manchester City are another step than us,' he said.
'But I think we can improve. My target is to be the best team in England, but not in one month. Maybe one season, maybe a little more.
'But our target is this. At the moment, I repeat, in my opinion Liverpool and City are better than us.'
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