Mateo Kovacic is thrilled with his move to Real Madrid.
Kovacic was sold by Inter Milan to Real Madrid this week for €35 million.
"Real Madrid are the biggest club in the world, I'm in no doubt about that. I'm very happy with the support I've been given from the word go and I hope I can show why the club have signed me. I've joined Real Madrid and it's the opportunity of a lifetime.
"It's a really important step for me and for my family, and I want to live this dream for many years to come. I'm used to dealing with difficult moments and I'm very happy to be here. I hope I don't disappoint and that I can meet all expectations. When Real Madrid show an interest in you, there can be no hesitation; it only comes around once in a lifetime."
Kovacic admits the presence of Croatia teammate Luka Modric was an influence.
"He's a friend of mine. I'm very happy to be able to share a dressing room with him and I thank him for all the positive things he has said about me. Modric is a really great player, unique, in my view the best around, but each player has his own individual characteristics."