According to The Telegraph (h/t The Daily Star), former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has opened up on how Diego Costa left the club.
The Spanish international was a key cog in our 2017 Premier League success. A player that fans love to have on their side, the striker was a warrior who created a cult following.
Our success in 2017 came at a cost. Despite the glory, Costa was keen to return to Atletico Madrid that summer.
“We know the truth. The player, his agent, the club and I.”
The 32-year-old got his wish and was sold to the Spanish giants. Conte was keen for the duo to part on good terms but admits that was not the case.
The Inter Milan boss admitted that Costa was keen to leave the club for a whole year. He initially wanted to move to Atletico and was even ready to move to China that January.
“We know how many times he asked to go away to Atletico Madrid at the start of the season, during the season to go to China, and at the end of the season to join, again, Atletico Madrid.”
Conte was unhappy and was keen to see the player put Chelsea first. He was not a fan of the player’s heart and mind being elsewhere.
“My team must be the first choice.”
He goes on to reveal that the player was keen to leave and was in search of the best contract. It does take the sheen of a player that fans grew to adore in Blue.
While some fans could still be divided on what they think of it, Conte at the very least is clear about where he stands.
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