Diego Costa reignites Chelsea feud with brutal verdict on ex manager

A turbulent Chelsea chapter revisited

Diego Costa has once again reflected on his Chelsea spell, drawing renewed attention to a period that brought both trophies and tension. His comments emerged during a recent appearance on John Obi Mikel’s podcast and have circulated widely online.

According to Metro journalist Tom Olver, Costa used the conversation to revisit unresolved feelings about his final months at the club, particularly his breakdown in relations with then manager Antonio Conte.

From instant impact to silverware

Chelsea signed Costa from Atletico Madrid in 2014, and he quickly became one of the Premier League’s most feared forwards. His aggressive style and goals played a major role in the club’s domestic dominance during that period.

Across his time in west London, Costa won two Premier League titles and the League Cup. He also received individual recognition following a prolific debut season in English football.

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One of those league titles came under Conte during the 2016,17 campaign, a season that began with early success for both player and manager.

Relationship with Conte deteriorates

Despite the strong start, the working relationship did not endure. Costa eventually fell out of favour amid reported interest from the Chinese Super League.

According to Metro, Costa was later informed via text message that he could leave Chelsea, a moment that effectively ended his career at the club.

After departing London, he returned to Atletico Madrid before spells with Atletico Mineiro, Wolves and Botafogo. He is currently without a club following his departure from Brazilian side Gremio earlier this month.

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Costa’s blunt assessment of Conte

Speaking directly about Conte on the podcast, Costa offered an unfiltered view of their time together.

“He is a person who doesn’t trust others. He thinks he knows everything,” Costa said.

“You don’t enjoy training with him, he’s always angry, always with a long face. The players wanted to come back but nobody liked him and that’s why he didn’t last long. The past is the past.”

A very different experience under Mourinho

Costa contrasted his experience under Conte with another former Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho, who he described in far more positive terms.

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“For me, Mourinho, personally, was the coach that I enjoyed the most,” Costa said. “This is because he gives you life. You come to training happy.”

Respect for a Chelsea icon

The former striker also spoke about his admiration for Didier Drogba, explaining how closely he observed the club legend during training sessions.

“Didier is an idol, he is one of the greatest in the club’s history,” Costa said, adding that he studied Drogba’s movement, physical presence and ability to dominate defenders.

Why Costa’s words still resonate

Costa’s comments serve as a reminder of how quickly success and conflict can collide at elite clubs, even during trophy winning seasons. Years on, his reflections continue to shape how that Chelsea era is remembered by supporters and former teammates alike.

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Sources: Metro, John Obi Mikel podcast

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