Midfielder joins Blues on four-year deal for a fee of around £25m
Manchester City confirmed the signing of midfielder Mateo Kovacic earlier this week.
The 29-year-old Croatian international has joined from Chelsea for a fee of £25m, with an additional £5m due if certain conditions are met.
Kovacic has signed a four-year deal that will see him stay at The Etihad until 2027, and takes the vacant number 8 shirt previously worn by Ilkay Gundogan.
“This is a brilliant move for me, and I cannot wait to get started with City,” Kovacic said.
“Anyone who has watched this team under Pep knows how good they are – for me, they are the best in the world. The trophies they have won are clear for all to see, but they are also the best footballing side out there.
“To be joining this squad really is a dream for any footballer.
“I still have plenty of learning and developing to do, and I know under Pep’s management I can become a better player, which is really exciting for me.
“My plan now is to rest for a few weeks before coming back to Manchester to prepare for the new season. I want to help this club stay at the top and win more trophies.”
Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “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. It was a very simple decision to bring him to City because he has the tactical and technical qualities we are looking for in a midfielder.
“He is someone we have monitored for a very long time and always we were impressed whenever we watched him.
“I am delighted he is here. 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.”