Costa, Conte speak out as Atletico finally unveil striker

Matt Stead

Diego Costa has finally been unveiled as an Atletico Madrid player after his departure from Chelsea.

The Premier League champions announced in September that they had reached an agreement with Atletico over the return of Costa.

The striker left the Spanish capital club in 2014 for Stamford Bridge, winning two Premier League titles before heading back.

And he was finally unveiled as an Atletico player once more on Sunday.

But Costa was happy to discuss his time at Chelsea, despite being frozen out by Antonio Conte after the end of last season.

“I did not learn English, which was a pity,” he said.

“I was very well, the people, the fans, the teammates have helped me a lot.

“They made my life easier.

“Chelsea is a great club. I have a special affection for them and there are only good memories.”

Conte told Sky Sports, of his former forward: “It’s not right to talk about players who are not in my team and squad.

“But I thank him for his commitment and behaviour during the season.

“We won together, so I will always remember him in a positive way. We fought together and won together.”