Luka Jovic: “Joining Real Madrid is the best decision and I’ll give my all to win trophies”

Fans welcomed Luka Jovic to Real Madrid as the forward was presented at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday afternoon following his transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt.

The 21-year-old was wanted by several of Europe’s top clubs, but decided to come to Real, and expressed his delight at signing his contract.

“I’m very happy and the happiest guy in the world, and I’m sure I have made the best possible decision,” Jovic said as he gave a brief statement at the podium. “I’ll give my all to help bring more trophies to the club.”

The player then went out to the pitch, greeting the fans and whipping up a roar as he kissed the badge, before returning inside for a press conference when he spoke at greater length about his transfer and ambitions.

“I’m the happiest footballer in the world and happy to be part of such an important club,” he said. “Real Madrid is the biggest in the world and it’s a pleasure to sign for this club. I used to sleep at night with the Real Madrid jersey, a gift from my father’s friend. Every since I was a kid, I have been a fan of Real Madrid, just like many children around the world. Ronaldo Nazario was definitely one of my players as a kid. As for current players, I wouldn’t want to say as we’re now all teammates. I know last season wasn’t the best for Real Madrid, but I hope next season will be better.”

During the chase for Jovic, it was reported that Barcelona were also keen to sign him and he was asked if he’d received offers from Catalonia and about his decision to move to LaLiga. “I knew nothing of other offers, it’s my agent who deals with that,” he said. “I think the Spanish league, along with the Premier League, is the best in Europe.”

Jovic was asked to describe himself as a player and was asked what kind of striker he is. “I can play as a lone striker, or with another striker,” he replied. “I don’t mind, I’m here to fight. Of course there is fierce competition, but I’m sure I’ll get my chance and if I take it then I am sure I can play more. If not, then it’ll be my fault. Karim Benzema is definitely one of the best strikers in the world. He has been here since I was 11 years old, so I look forward to working with him. I can’t give an exact figure as far as goals are concerned for the upcoming season, but I will give my all.”

Eden Hazard, who will be presented on Thursday and who Jovic faced in the Europa League in the past season, was also brought up. “Of course I am excited about him,” he said. “Hazard is one of the best players in the world and it’ll be a pleasure to play alongside him.”

Finally, the striker was also asked if there is one trophy he’d like to win at Real Madrid above all others and he didn’t hesitate when stating that it’s the Champions League.

Club president Florentino Perez also spoke at the event addressing the assembled media and club guests as he introduced the Serbian. “Today we want to share the start of a new project for next year with all Madridisitas,” Perez said. “We need to work very hard for the millions of fans.Last year wasn’t the year we wanted, so we’ll react with strength. This club never gives up and we’ll keep demonstrating it.”

“It was unique and magical to win four Champions League titles in five years, something that we’ll only really be able to value with time, but now we have the responsibility and mission to return to winning ways. Now we welcome one of the players who’ll embark on this mission and who now joins the Real Madrid family. It was one of his great dreams to come to the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.”

Perez then addressed the player personally. “Welcome Luka Jovic, to the club of 13 European Cups,” said the president. “We know that other clubs wanted you because of your talent, but you wanted to form part of the Real Madrid legend and fought to make this happen. You’ve just had a great goalscoring season, but Real Madrid fans will now demand much more of you. This fanbase will give you all their support and love as you defend the badge of the most prestigious and most successful club in the world. We wish you lots of luck here. Welcome to Real Madrid, your new home.”