Manchester City has confirmed the signing of Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea for a fee of £30 million. The midfielder has joined the treble winners on a four-year contract following months of speculation linking him with an exit from Stamford Bridge. In this article, we will discuss Kovacic’s journey from Real Madrid to Chelsea and his achievements with both clubs.
Kovacic’s Journey to Chelsea
Kovacic first joined Chelsea on loan from Real Madrid in the summer of 2018 and a year later the transfer was made permanent for around £40m. Prior to the move, the 29-year-old had won three consecutive Champions Leagues with Los Blancos. He continued to win silverware in England, lifting the UCL again as well as the Europa League and Club World Cup.
Kovacic’s Achievements with Chelsea
Kovacic became one of Chelsea’s most important players, making 221 appearances in total. He helped the Blues reach two FA Cup finals and two League Cup finals. The 95-capped Croatia international was also a key player for his country when they finished runner-up at the 2018 World Cup and third-place four years later.
Kovacic’s Role at Manchester City
At City, Kovacic will likely play in the role vacated by their former captain Ilkay Gundogan, who has joined Barcelona upon the expiry of his contract. Manchester City Director of Football Txiki Begiristain said: “Mateo is an excellent footballer. He can play as a 6 or an 8, has plenty of experience at top-level clubs, and he understands the Premier League.”
Begiristain added that Kovacic’s tactical and technical qualities make him an ideal fit for City’s midfield. “He is someone we have monitored for a very long time, and always we were impressed whenever we watched him,” he said. “This is a great signing for this club, and I am very excited to watch what he can do with Pep and the rest of our backroom team.”
Conclusion
Mateo Kovacic has had an impressive career so far, winning four Champions League titles and several other trophies with Real Madrid and Chelsea. His move to Manchester City is expected to be a significant boost for the club’s midfield, and fans are eagerly awaiting his debut. With his experience and tactical abilities, Kovacic is sure to make a significant impact at City and help them achieve more success in the coming seasons.