Mateo Kovacic does not want to disrespect parent club Real Madrid – but he is picturing his future at Chelsea.
Asked if he was pleased with the season-long loan move so far, Kovacic said: “I think it was the most important thing I did for now in my career.
“It was a step I wanted a lot, I wanted to come here. I say thank you to my previous club, to Chelsea as well, who wanted me a lot. I am enjoying it and I like it a lot here. For now, I am happy here.
“The city is amazing, the club is one of the best in the world, and my team-mates are great.
“I need to respect my previous club, Real Madrid. I can imagine myself staying here, but I have a contract I need to respect, and that is what I will do.”