Transfer Flashback: Mateo Kovacic

Chelsea fans had an eventful summer transfer window last year. With new boss Maurizio Sarri brought in, the Italian made wholesale changes to his squad. Part of those changes was bringing in a new ‘keeper to replace Thibaut Courtois, although when Courtois left for Real Madrid the Blues received Mateo Kovacic on loan as part of the exchange.
We have tonight agreed terms with Real Madrid for the transfer of Thibaut Courtois, subject to the agreement of personal terms and a medical. As part of the deal, Mateo Kovacic will join Chelsea on a season-long loan.https://t.co/WXhHzEdf6D
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 8, 2018
A lot of Chelsea fans replied to the confirmation tweet for Kovacic with hate considering that the club announced the Croatian in the same tweet as they did Courtois’ departure. The Belgian goalkeeper was viewed as a snake for leaving the club, but at least the Blues were all delighted with Kovacic as he softened the blow of losing one of the world’s best goalkeepers.
In the Croatian midfielder’s time at Stamford Bridge so far, he’s failed to make a lasting impact. The 24-year-old mad his debut off the bench during Chelsea’s 3-2 home win over Arsenal, and has gone on to make 28 appearances so far. However, with just two assists to his name and no goals as of yet, it looks like the World Cup finalist still has a way to go before convincing the Blues of his talents.
You can see what the Chelsea fans made of Kovacic upon him signing here:
A midfield with kovacic,jorghino and kante
— GeoEnthusiast (@shaz_naomi) 9 August 2018
Kante, Jorginho, Kovacic midfield trio
— Jack (@jackbeddall987) 8 August 2018
The way Courtois engineered this move shows a lack of of respect and loyalty for the fans, club. Good to see Kovacic joining us, good addition, hope it will be a permanent one.
— T Radu (@tradu81) August 8, 2018
Welcome Kovacic and well done for the deal, better and stronger season
— HaJiA (@Adaama_) 8 August 2018
#Kante & #jorginho & #Kovacic
Nothing gets better— Majid Heydari (@majidheydari802) 8 August 2018
The best news in Chelsea’s transfer window. Thank you Courtois. At least no more nutmegs now.Welcome @Mateo kovacic
— Ephraim Edem Akpari (@eph_edem) 8 August 2018
The Blues were all delighted to welcome Kovacic to the club over the summer, although they’re still waiting to see the best of the Croatian midfielder.
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