“I would have still be a Chelsea player”, “not the fans” – Diego Costa slams former Chelsea coach for ‘bad relationship’ after 3-0 Wolves defeat to Chelsea
Diego Costa won the Premier League twice during his three-year stellar tenure at Chelsea.
Costa helped Chelsea win two Premier League championships and the League Cup by tallying 59 goals in 120 games.
The Brazilian left the club in 2017, nevertheless, as a result of a disagreement with the then-manager Antonio Conte.
As Chelsea trounced Wolves 3-0, Costa received a heartfelt welcome upon his return to Stamford Bridge.
Costa has praised Chelsea supporters and instead stated that he has problems with Antonio Conte.
“It was special,” Costa told ESPN Brazil.
“Feeling that you did your job when you were here and then leaving with good memories.
“Receiving this affection from the Chelsea fans… I’ve always had affection. I have nothing to complain about the Chelsea fans. When I was here, they always treated me well.
“It wasn’t the fans. It was with that coach… Conte. I had a very good relationship with the Chelsea fans. I was a champion! It was in the year that we won the second title. Conte didn’t count on me as much and I couldn’t stay.
“The affection I received today shows that I was never fighting with the fans. But I had to leave. It wasn’t my issue.
“It was because of the coach at that moment. Today is proof that the crowd has always been by my side and had affection for me.”
On his surprising return to the Premier League at age 34, Costa added: “I did not imagine returning to the Premier League.
“It is the best league in the world, the games are always wonderful, the stadiums are full. It’s a new challenge, I know it won’t be easy. But I want to do something beautiful here.”