Cape Town - Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri has said he has been surprised by the ability of David Luiz and that the Brazilian was confused over his lack of playing time under former coach Antonio Conte.
The Brazil defender, 31, had a rumoured falling-out with Conte and a series of injuries, not featuring at all after the February loss at Watford.
"Two seasons ago he was a protagonist," said Sarri. "Then six months ago he was not playing, so he was a little confused."
Chelsea are unbeaten in the Premier League this season, with five wins and two draws, and came within minutes of inflicting Liverpool's first loss on Saturday.
What Sarri likes about Luiz could be a trait that explains his exile under Conte.
"He's direct. If he has to say something to the manager he has to talk to me," Sarri said. "I like very much direct people.
"When I arrived here immediately I had the feeling he's a very good player for my way of football because he's a centre-back who is very technical.
"Then I appreciate his qualities as a man. He's really better than I thought before."
Luiz is thriving under Sarri.
"Sarri is giving us a lot of happiness to play football. We are trying to enjoy," he told Chelsea TV.
"He gives us a lot of confidence. He shows us what he wants. He gives us the details about the game."