Chelsea manager José Mourinho expects new signing Diego Costa to adapt to the Premier League.
The forward, who was born in Brazil [Lagarto], but represents Spain at international level, was purchased from Atlético de Madrid for a reported fee of £32 million – his buyout clause – earlier this month.
Costa has already shown what he is capable of with a goal in Chelsea’s 2-1 friendly win against Olimpija and Mourinho believes his decision to wait to sign the 25 year-old will be promptly rewarded.
"Over the past year, in the winter [transfer window] everyone was talking about if we were to buy a striker to try and win the League in the second half of the season," he said, as reported by AS and Football Espana.
"At the time we decided not to because our main bet was always Diego Costa.
"I’ve known Diego since he was 17 and went to Portugal. He’s the type of person who has not had an easy life. No one gave him anything.
"He always had to fight for what he wanted. The Premier League is a tough competition but I don’t think he’ll have a problem succeeding here."
Costa came to the fore last season, with his return of 36 goals in 51 appearances in all competitions – including a penalty against Chelsea – helping Atlético to win La Liga and reach the UEFA Champions League Final, where they were defeated by city rivals Real Madrid.
Prior to the 2013/14 campaign, he had managed 28 goals in 82 appearances for Atlético, who signed him from SC Braga in July 2007, and spent time away at Celta de Vigo, Albacete, Real Valladolid and Rayo Vallecano.
