In Focus: Antonio Conte is taking a risk by showing Diego Costa the door

According to BBC Football, Chelsea striker Diego Costa stated following Spain’s 2-2 draw against Colombia on Wednesday night that he isn’t part of manager Antonio Conte’s future plans.
What’s the word, then?

Well, the 28-year-old’s future at Stamford Bridge has been in doubt ever since he was linked with a move to Chinese Super League club Tianjin Quanjian during the January transfer window, but a move failed to materialise as the Blues didn’t want him to go when they were fighting for the Premier League title.

However, despite playing a key role in their triumph by scoring 20 league goals, Costa’s latest comments suggest that he could now be shown the exit door this summer.
What did he say?

Well, the quotes from the Spaniard were certainly quite revealing.

The attacker said: “I’m a Chelsea player, but they do not want me there.

“Antonio Conte has told me by message that I do not follow at Chelsea and that’s it. Conte said he did not count on me for next season.

“My relationship with the coach has been bad this season. It’s a shame, I’ve already forwarded the message to Chelsea people to decide.

“You have to find a team.”

Why does Conte want rid?

Obviously the Italian boss doesn’t feel Costa is as committed to the club as he should be, and he certainly wasn’t impressed when the 28-year-old had to be left out of the match against Leicester City in January following a dispute with a fitness coach.

The Blues are already being linked with moves for the likes of Everton’s Romelu Lukaku and Real Madrid’S Alvaro Morata this summer, but rather than added competition for the Spain international it appears as though they would be his replacement.
Could he return to Atletico?

The striker has been pretty coy when talking about his future but there is a belief that he would like to return to Atletico if the opportunity was presented.

The problem for Costa right now is that because of a transfer ban, the La Liga outfit are unable to sign any players until the January transfer window, which could mean a number of months where he wouldn’t be playing if he decided to wait.

With the 2018 World Cup approaching, that might not be an option.
What’s the verdict, then?

Well, it appears as though the relationship between Conte and Costa has been strained for a while and it would be no surprise if he leaves the club this summer.

Considering how influential he has been during his Chelsea career though, it could be a huge risk.