Former Chelsea striker Diego Costa recently announced that he’s leaving Atletico Mineiro after just 6 months.
The former Spanish international and the Brazilian club decided to mutually terminate the contract, making Costa a free agent.
The decision came due to Costa’s injury-plagued time at the club.
While certainly past his prime, the 33-year-old remains a formidable option for any club looking for a backup number 9.
It comes as a surprise that no club was interested in acquiring Costa’s services as a free agent, a sentiment shared by his former teammate John Terry.
The Blues legend took to Twitter to voice his shock, he said, “I can’t believe (Costa) hasn’t been signed by a premier league club? This man is a winner and would make any team stronger.”
I can’t believe @diegocosta hasn’t been signed by a premier league club ?
— John Terry (@JohnTerry26) February 1, 2022
This man is a winner and would make any team stronger 💙⚽️ pic.twitter.com/KP2lQ3jFay
Terry vouching for his former colleague isn’t just due to their bond.
Costa might be more sluggish due to his age, but still possesses all the necessary qualities for a Premier League frontman.
Strong, direct, aerially capable etc these qualities were all on display during Costa’s heyday at Stamford Bridge.
Even with the underlying fitness and injury issues, the 33-year-old remains a solid option for an experienced backup striker, a trend that has become rather common these days.
The likes of Olivier Giroud, Edinson Cavani, Edin Dzeko are all examples of this, and Costa certainly has the experience required.
Nonetheless, seeing the captain bat for his former teammate might bring back some fond memories for Blues fans.
After all, the pair enjoyed a successful time together in terms of silverware, leading the side from opposite ends of the pitch.