Former Chelsea talisman Diego Costa has reignited his long-standing feud with Antonio Conte, labeling the Italian strategist as a distrustful leader whom players widely disliked. During a candid appearance on the latest episode of John Obi Mikel’s podcast, the veteran striker contrasted his difficult relationship with Conte against the positive atmosphere fostered by Jose Mourinho.
Costa originally joined the Blues from Atletico Madrid for £32 million in 2014, quickly establishing himself as a fan favorite by securing two Premier League titles and the Carabao Cup. Despite their initial success together in the 2016/17 campaign, the partnership famously dissolved after Conte dismissed the striker via a text message.
The 37-year-old forward, currently a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Gremio, reflected on the toxic environment he experienced under the current Napoli manager. Costa noted that Conte’s rigid and perpetually irritable demeanor sucked the enjoyment out of daily training sessions at Cobham.
In his conversation with Mikel, which also touched on the legendary “Battle of the Bridge” and his admiration for Didier Drogba, Costa suggested that the squad’s collective lack of affection for Conte led to the manager’s eventual departure. Conversely, he praised Jose Mourinho for providing the motivation and happiness necessary for players to thrive.
Costa’s career trajectory saw him return to Atletico Madrid before representing Wolves, Atletico Mineiro, and Botafogo. While the full interview remains pending release, preview clips detailing the internal friction at Stamford Bridge have already gained massive traction across social media platforms. The Brazilian-born Spaniard maintains that the high-pressure tactics employed by Conte ultimately alienated the very stars responsible for the club’s silverware.
Diego Costa shared his unfiltered perspective on Conte with the Obi One Podcast: “He is a person who doesn’t trust others. He thinks he knows everything. You don’t enjoy training with him, he’s always angry, always with a long face. The players wanted to return but nobody liked him and that’s why he didn’t last long. The past is the past.”
The striker further highlighted his preference for the management style of Jose Mourinho: “This is because he gives you life. You come to training happy.”
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