Zidane wanted to dump Jovic at Real Madrid instead of me,...

Mayoral was part of Zidane in 2017/18 and spent the following two La Liga campaigns on loan at Levante, where he scored 14 goals in 69 games in all competitions.

He returned to Madrid earlier this season and was signed as a substitute in two league games. Since then he has been on loan from the Roma for two years.

However, Mayoral has claimed that things could have gone differently as Zidane preferred him over Jovic, who has struggled to make an impact since arriving at the Santiago Bernabeu ahead of the 2019-20 campaign.

“After playing at Real Madrid last season, I wanted to leave the club quickly, but Zidane wanted me to stay,” he said when he was introduced by Roma on Wednesday.

“I told him I had to go to get more opportunities. I think the club listened to Zidane and that is why they wanted to discharge Jovic instead. ”

“Everything was done very late, but in the end I called [Zidane’s] office again and asked him if he could let me go.

“I thought I had more opportunities to play and improve. In the end it’s done, I’m here and that’s the most important thing. ”

The Roma paid € 2 million for the temporary deal and have the option to make the move permanent for a fee next season.

Mayoral has not yet made his debut for the Serie A club but rarely wants to move into a new league.

“I got there a little late, but the most important thing is that I’m here now,” he said. “I see myself as a young striker who is very eager and hungry and who has already had some experience in the league.

“I’m a striker who scores a goal, plays well in the penalty area, but also moves well, who can help the team with its movements and provide assists.”

“I’ve only been here for 10 days and I’m very happy with my choice, happy with the club and my teammates. I feel good.”