An expensive Croatian arrival is unveiled in Madrid.
Mateo Kovačić is a new player of Real Madrid. The Croatian striker passed a medical examination and signed a six-year contract, and then he was officially presented on Real's Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, reports Jutarnji List on August 19, 2015.
As it was expected, Mateo Kovačić completed all the formalities in Madrid on Wednesday morning, and then he scored his first goal in the shirt of Real Madrid. Of course, it happened at the official presentation ceremony, on the pitch in front of numerous journalists and photographers. Mateo's family, father, mother and sister, were also present. The first goal was scored from the penalty spot, in front of hundreds of fans who came to the presentation ceremony.
The Croatian national team member ran onto the pitch in a jersey with the number 16, which he will wear for the next six years. Number eight which he had at Dinamo is already taken by Toni Kroos, while number ten which he had at Inter is worn by James Rodriguez.
"I would like to thank everyone for their support. I have come to the biggest club in the world and I hope to do my best here", said the new Croatian "Madridista".
Real President Florenitno Perez was also present. "Mateo, you have come to Real Madrid, the most prestigious club in the world. You have the privilege, but you have to accept great responsibility. Your country Croatia loves football, and you have become the best young player of your country. Welcome home, welcome to Real Madrid", said Perez.
The 21-year-old Croatian star has already been welcomed by the Real coach Rafa Benitez, who on Tuesday night said that he was certainly counting on Kovačić. "We know his qualities. The team suffered last year when Modrić was injured, and many complained that we need that type of player. Kovačić is not a defensive midfielder or a position player who will take away the ball. He likes to go forward, has a good pass and a good shot. Kovačić is not afraid when he finds himself in a good goal scoring opportunity. He is not afraid of responsibility and that makes him a great player for Real Madrid. He is young and his future is here", said Benítez.
