The defending champions have recovered from a recent slump to sit equal top of the Serie A table alongside AC Milan.
Zola told Il Mattino of Conte: "He's someone who adds value on the pitch, through how he works with the team and brings out the best in the opposition.
"There were moments when (Rasmus) Hojlund was breathtaking (against Juventus), the way he ran defensively. Antonio's strength is this: as a player, he was like that, he had many other qualities, of course, but his main one was determination, he never gave up.
"And so he has become an example for his players today."
Zola continued: "Tell me who wouldn't have a soft spot for McTominay, who's doing great things.
"But I've also been impressed by (David) Neres' growth. Compared to a year ago, he's grown in personality. He takes risks. He tries to be decisive. Sometimes he makes mistakes, but at least he tries.
"And in modern football, what I blame on many players is that they always look for the easy play, while close to the opponent's penalty area you have to try something different. He's brave."