The 24-year-old who spoke after Chelsea’s 0-0 draw at the London Stadium, endured a difficult campaign at the Bernabeu since joining from Inter Milan in 2015.
The Croatian midfielder who’s appearances dropped to 21 last season, from 27 in the 2016-17 La Liga campaign, has managed to nail down a spot in the midfield berth of Sarri’s squad.
Widely known for his powerful drive and quick dribbles, Kovacic, a part of a swap deal for former Chelsea keeper and Golden Globe recipient Thibaut Courtois, has been a crux in Chelsea’s three-pronged midfield.
The 24-year-old has made five appearances for Chelsea this season from five matches, igniting a spark of tight competition between other options–Ross Barkley and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
Despite hinting he saw a long term career in Chelsea, he pleaded that “it is too early” to conclude.
Kovacic said: “It is too early and I have to respect my contract with Real Madrid. But for now I’m really happy with Chelsea. The city is amazing. The fans are great. The stadium, everything is nice. I could imagine myself [staying] here.”
Chelsea do not have an option to buy, but a deal could easily be negotiated to seal his switch if he exceeds expectations under Sarri.