Mateo Kovacic didn’t do too bad on his Chelsea debut in the 3-2 win over Arsenal.
The Croatian midfielder arrived late on in the transfer window on loan from Real Madrid, much to the delight of Blues fans.
Kovacic is widely recognised as a top-class midfielder, but just couldn’t get ahead of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos at the Bernabeu – and there’s no shame in that.
At Chelsea, he will surely be a guaranteed starter under Maurizio Sarri, with Ross Barkley likely to be the one to make way.
Kovacic, Jorginho and N’Golo Kante; that’s not a bad midfield trio to have.
The only issue is that the Croatian maestro is only on loan, despite the fact he pushed for a move away from Real Madrid.
However, his interview to Sport Klub after the game has really caught the attention of Chelsea fans and made them think the move could become a permanent player already.
Kovacic said: “I needed a team that wanted me and I found that here with Sarri and Chelsea.”
Interesting. It was hard to understand the lack of interest in Kovacic when he made it clear that he wanted to leave Real Madrid.
Aside from Manchester City, surely any of the top six would have seen their squad improved with his arrival?
But he’s Chelsea’s for now and supporters firmly believe he will be at Stamford Bridge for more than a season after his post-match interview.
Kovacic’s own tweet after the game also suggested he was very, very happy with his opening bow in London.
CHELSEA FANS HAVE HOPE OVER KOVACIC
Kovacic’s introduction after 60 minutes really was a turning point against Arsenal.
He arrived on the pitch with Eden Hazard and the two struck up some instant chemistry, with one short clip summing up their brilliance together on the ball.
KOVACIC AND HAZARD PASS THROUGH ARSENAL
Imagine trying to deal with that when you need an equaliser.
It may be a transitional season under Sarri, but things are looking bright for Chelsea.