Chelsea striker Diego Costa has confirmed that he wanted to return to his former club Atletico Madrid in the transfer window.
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Costa, who won the La Liga title with the Rojiblancos in the 2013/14 campaign, was heavily linked with a return to the club during the latest window, but ended up staying at Stamford Bridge.
The Brazil-born Spain international has now admitted that he hoped to return to his former side, but "minor details" prevented this from happening.
"The truth is that I had hope of returning (to Atletico)," Costa told Movistar+.
"I won't lie, because everyone knows what I'm going through with the language, some things.
"There was always the possibility to return but it could not be due to a few minor details.
"But I can't complain because the people there (at Chelsea) love me, and the fans want me and respect me.
"I will always thank the people of Atleti, Cholo (Simeone) especially because he always had confidence in me.
"But I am now at Chelsea, I am good, the league has started and now we have to think in that.
"I hope Atleti do as well as last season and they can win some trophies."
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The 27-year-old has had a good start to the season, having scored two league goals in three games.
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