New Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic said it was "special" to be joining "the biggest club in the world" as he was presented at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday lunchtime.
Kovacic, 21, has joined Madrid from Inter Milan for a fee reported to be around €30 million, and is likely to go straight into the match squad to for his new club's La Liga opener at Sporting Gijon on Sunday afternoon.
Kovacic was formally presented by Blancos president Florentino Perez, and posed for photographers on the Bernabeu pitch wearing his new No. 16 shirt.
Perez said that the signing was in line with his policy of bringing the world's most talented players to the Bernabeu.
"Without doubt we have a magnificent squad and a great coaching team to set out to achieve our ambitions this season, but all the world knows that not conforming is one of our characteristics," the president said in his prepared discourse.
"Real Madrid does not tire in looking for players with talent who want to wear our badge. [Kovacic] is a young player, but with experience. He has a lot of talent and for sure will help us to be better."
The Croatia international then told reporters at the event that he is delighted to have made the move and is now looking forward to proving himself worthy of a place in the team.
"I appreciate the nice words from the president," he said. "I want to thank the club. I am at the biggest club in the world, and that means something special. I expect a lot of myself and all the team. Hala Madrid!"
While Kovacic has played much of his past football as a No. 10, Blancos coach Rafa Benitez suggested after Tuesday's 2-1 friendly win over Galatasaray that he sees the Croatia international primarily as a backup to his fellow countryman Luka Modric.
The player himself responded to questioning on this theme by saying he was happiest playing in deep midfield position.
"I am most comfortable in position as defensive midfielder, but it will be the coach who decides where I play," he said.
Asked why he had chosen Madrid over potential interest from Barcelona, he replied: "Because Madrid is the biggest club in the world. I had no doubts. I am very happy to be here."
The signing means Madrid have spent around €60m on transfers this summer, with Brazilian right-back Danilo, goalkeeper Kiko Casilla and young playmaker Marco Asensio among the other new arrivals.
Kovacic's arrival could see some players depart the club before the transfer window ends, with Lucas Silva and Asier Illarramendi appearing to be surplus to requirements given the number of midfielders available to Benitez.
Silva, who only moved to the Bernabeu in January, is expected to leave on loan in the coming days, with Kovacic having taken his No. 16 shirt.