Diego Costa explained his decision to return to the Premier League on a free transfer to Wolves.
The 33-year-old, who scored 59 goals in 120 appearances for Chelsea, has been out of the club since leaving Brazil’s Atletico Mineiro in January.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, Costa won two Premier League titles and the League Cup. He left Chelsea in 2017 after his relationship with then-Blues manager Antonio Conte deteriorated.
Costa passed Wolves’ medical last week and signed for the club to cover for new signing Sasa Karajidjiv, who suffered a serious injury on his debut.
“This is a first-class club with very good players who know how to play football, and the opportunity to play in the Premier League was the main one,” Costa said.
Obviously the club influenced my decision. Above all, not only from a technical point of view, but also because of the quality of the players, many of them Portuguese, which makes the transition easier for me.
“Given the player’s injuries, he was not in the best possible condition. Unfortunately, I wish you the best.
but [Bruno Lage] He spoke to us about returning to the Premier League. Because I was very involved in this championship.
“It was a disappointment because I enjoyed playing for Madrid, but that was my motivation.
The 33-year-old added:
It has been a pleasure to play, to come back and in my opinion, based on experience, the league has the atmosphere, the games are played, the stadiums are full of fans, the pitches are in perfect condition, I respect that I am here. player.each other
“I was wondering if I could do it if I was physically and mentally ready for this new challenge. I know it’s hard, but mentally I’m fine.
It takes 2-3 weeks to get back to normal physically and mentally.
“If I had ever doubted my potential because of what I’ve been doing, and thank God I had a successful career and I had nothing left to give, I would not have accepted this challenge because I have a team. I answered yes. . Because I think I can bring something to the table. “
The Timberwolves got off to a poor start to the 2022-23 season, winning just one of their first six games and finishing 14th this weekend.
Wolves president Jeff Shea said of Costa’s arrival:
“Diego, a consecutive winner with extensive experience at the highest level, will bring something unique to our locker room and field. We look forward to his impact at Molineux and Compton this season. Got him.”
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