Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone insists Diego Costa will become even better at Chelsea

Diego Costa came out of Radamel Falcao’s shadow last season to set La Liga on fire

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has backed striker Diego Costa to shine at Chelsea and insists he will become an even better player.

The 25-year-old joined the west London-based outfit after weeks of negotiations, which began back in May. The deal was officially announced just a few days ago, but Costa seemed set to make the move for a lengthy period.

The Spanish international has come off the back of a remarkable campaign under Simeone, where he helped them win the La Liga title and also led them to the final of the Champions League.

However, Costa struggled to rediscover his form at the World Cup for Spain after suffering with a hamstring injury and there were reports suggesting that Mourinho should avoid signing up Costa this summer.

However, Mourinho opted to go ahead with the transfer and has backed the Spaniard to shine.

Simeone told reporters: “Diego Costa is where he wants to be and I am absolutely thrilled for him.

“I love Diego as a player. At Atletico Madrid, he gave us so much and I will always be grateful to those players who have given me their all.

“Diego behaved in that way the whole time he was with us, so I wish him the very best at Chelsea. I hope he has a great season. He can still get a lot better, keep growing.”

“He’s at an age where he can continue to improve, so let’s hope he can develop further. He’ll have to adapt quickly to the system at Chelsea and to the coach [Jose Mourinho], but let’s hope the team can take full advantage of his characteristics. I see a player very much on the way up and I’m sure he’ll be a success.”