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Diego Costa sends farewell message to Atletico fans after exit

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Diego Costa has penned down an emotional message to the Atletico Madrid fans following confirmation he terminated his contract.

Diego Costa believes it was the right time and within the best interest of both parties after he decided to leave Atletico Madrid.

On Tuesday, the striker decided to terminate his contract at the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano after injuries once again hampered his participation in matches this season.

Since making his return to the club in 2018, things have not gone as planned for Costa and the forward admits it was time to leave the club.

In his first address to supporters since news of his contract termination got to the public, the 32-year-old says he is happy and sad at the same time but believes the decision is the best for the club.

“Well then everyone… Atletico fans… today, it’s with sadness and happiness too, that I say goodbye to all the Atleti supporters, to all my people,” Costa wrote in a lengthy statement on Instagram.

“I’m sad that I can no longer form part of this family, the day-to-day, but I’m happy for having been part of it, of this great club.”

“I’ve gone through difficult times here, which I’ve always risen from thanks to the support of the medical staff, physios, recovery staff and my teammates.”

“And we’ve had happy moments that are still in my and everyone else’s minds.”

“But I want to tell you that I feel happy for having made history and made my small name at this great club – something that I always wanted but never even imagined could happen.”

Costa continued: “I want to thank all the Atletico fans, but I think my time came and, just as much as it was for me as it was for the club, it was the best thing that could happen.”

“I think it’s the best time [to split] for both sides and the best thing to help this team and this club. I’ve given, or at least I’ve always tried to give, my best for this club and this shirt.”

During his two spells at the club, Costa played in a total of 215 games, scoring 83 goals and providing 36 assists.

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