Former Chelsea forward Timo Werner has paid tribute to N’Golo Kanté, describing the French midfielder as an exceptional footballer whose influence on matches reminded him of Lionel Messi, despite their contrasting positions and responsibilities on the pitch.

According to a report by Football London on Saturday, November 7, 2026, Werner reflected on his experience playing alongside Kanté at Stamford Bridge, where the pair helped Chelsea win the UEFA Champions League in 2021 under manager Thomas Tuchel.

Kanté played a crucial role in the Blues’ successful European campaign, particularly during the final against Manchester City. His performance helped Chelsea secure the trophy and demonstrated the importance of his contribution beyond the statistics normally associated with attacking players.

Although the midfielder was not renowned for scoring regularly or producing numerous assists, his influence was central to Chelsea’s overall performance. His exceptional work rate, ability to recover possession and understanding of the game made him an indispensable member of the team.

Werner remembered Kanté as a player who approached football with remarkable freedom and rarely seemed troubled by pressure. Despite having already achieved considerable success, including winning the World Cup with France, the midfielder appeared to enjoy the game without allowing expectations to affect his performances.

The German forward particularly admired Kanté’s natural ability to dispossess opponents and regain control of the ball. His presence gave Chelsea an additional source of protection and allowed the team to maintain its balance throughout matches.

"Playing with him was like having a 12th man on the pitch," Werner explained, emphasising the confidence Kanté provided to those around him. His contribution often extended beyond individual challenges, as his positioning and awareness helped teammates feel more secure in different areas of the pitch.

Kanté’s defensive qualities also created greater freedom for Chelsea’s attacking players. By covering significant distances, closing down opponents and recovering possession, he reduced the defensive responsibilities placed on his teammates. This allowed forwards and attacking midfielders to concentrate more on creating opportunities and threatening opposition defences.

Werner believes the impact Kanté produced during his strongest years could be compared with the influence Messi had on matches. However, he made the distinction that the Frenchman achieved such importance through his defensive work rather than the goals and creative contributions associated with the Argentine superstar.

The comparison reflects Werner’s appreciation of how one player can transform a team without necessarily dominating the traditional attacking statistics. Kanté’s ability to win the ball, cover spaces and disrupt opposition attacks made him a major influence on Chelsea’s performances.

His contribution was particularly valuable during the club’s Champions League-winning campaign, when defensive organisation and collective discipline played important roles in their success. Werner’s remarks also highlight the respect Kanté earned from teammates who experienced his influence firsthand.

For the former Chelsea striker, Kanté was much more than a dependable defensive midfielder. He was a player capable of changing the direction of a match through his energy, intelligence and consistency, even when he did not score or provide an assist. His influence left a lasting impression on those who shared the pitch with him.