Diego Costa Unleashes Scathing Critique of Former Chelsea Boss Antonio Conte
In a candid and explosive interview, former Chelsea striker Diego Costa has launched a blistering attack on his old manager Antonio Conte, branding the Italian as someone who was "always angry" and claiming that "nobody liked him" during his tenure at Stamford Bridge. The fiery remarks, made during a conversation with ex-Chelsea teammate John Obi Mikel, have ignited a storm across social media and football circles alike.
A Tumultuous Relationship at Stamford Bridge
Costa, who joined Chelsea from Atletico Madrid in a £32 million deal back in 2014, quickly became a fan favourite in west London. His combative style and lethal finishing saw him net 20 league goals in his debut season, earning him a place in the PFA Team of the Year. Over his Chelsea career, the Brazilian forward lifted two Premier League titles and a Carabao Cup, cementing his status as a key figure in the club's recent history.
Initially, the partnership between Costa and Conte showed promise. In November 2016, the pair were jointly awarded the Premier League Player and Manager of the Month awards, suggesting a harmonious working relationship. However, the dynamic soured dramatically just months later. Costa was dropped from the squad amid intense interest from the Chinese Super League, and the following summer, Conte infamously informed the striker via text message that he was no longer part of his plans.
Costa's Blunt Assessment of Conte's Management Style
Reflecting on his time under Conte, who now manages Napoli, Costa did not hold back in his criticism. "He is a person who doesn't trust others," Costa stated bluntly. "He thinks he knows everything. You don't enjoy training with him, he's always angry, always with a long face."
The striker went further, suggesting that Conte's unpopularity among the playing staff contributed to his relatively short stay at the club. "The players wanted to come back but nobody liked him and that's why he didn't last long," Costa asserted, before adding, "The past is the past."
Contrasting Praise for Mourinho and Drogba
In stark contrast to his views on Conte, Costa reserved glowing praise for another former Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho. "For me, Mourinho, personally, was the coach that I enjoyed the most," he revealed. "This is because he gives you life. You come to training happy." Mourinho, currently in charge of Benfica, clearly left a lasting positive impression on the striker.
Costa also spoke with deep admiration for Chelsea legend Didier Drogba, whom he described as an "idol" and "one of the greatest in the club's history." He explained how he would meticulously study the Ivorian's movements during training sessions. "I watched him from afar, I watched his movements, the way he controlled and the way he knocked down defenders," Costa said, highlighting Drogba's influence on his own game.
Costa's Current Situation and Future Prospects
Now 37 years old, Costa finds himself at a career crossroads. After leaving Chelsea, he had spells back at Atletico Madrid, followed by stints with Atletico Mineiro, Wolves, and Botafogo. Most recently, his contract with Brazilian side Gremio expired earlier this month, leaving him without a club. His future in football remains uncertain as he contemplates his next move.
The full interview with John Obi Mikel, which covers a range of topics including the infamous 'Battle of the Bridge' and Costa's reflections on his Chelsea career, is yet to be released in its entirety. However, the preview clip containing these pointed comments about Conte has already generated significant buzz, underscoring the enduring interest in one of football's most charismatic and outspoken figures.
