Diego Costa speaking to reporters after Wolves game against Chelsea on Saturday said Conte forced him out of Stamford Bridge and not the fans
By Kehinde Okeowo
Wolverhampton striker, Diego Costa has opened up on why he left the Blues in 2017, claiming the current Spurs manager, Antonio Conte forced him out of the West London club.
The former Atletico Madrid striker made the revelation on Saturday, October 8, when he made his emotional return to Stamford Bridge with new club, Wolves.
The 34-year-old, who was on the losing end in the match, scored 59 goals in 120 games for Chelsea, helping the club win two Premier League titles and a League Cup.
In 2017, Conte, then Chelsea boss, told Costa that he was surplus to requirements and no longer part of his plans, forcing him to return to his former club Atletico Madrid.
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Speaking to reporters after his overwhelming reception at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, Costa expressly said the current Tottenham manager made him leave Chelsea and not the fans.
“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.”