Diego Costa finally made his first appearance of the 2017-18 campaign this evening, coming off the bench for Atletico Madrid following his return to the Spanish club from Chelsea.Costa has been in limbo since last summer when he was informed by Chelsea boss Antonio Conte via text message that he wasn’t in the club’s future plans.The Blues announced back in September that Costa would return to Atletico when the transfer window opened in January 2018 - and he made his return to action against Lleida Esportiu in the Copa del Rey tonight.Atleti were already 2-0 up - thanks to goals from Diego Godin and Fernando Torres - when Costa entered the fray for Angel Correa in the 64th minute.Five minutes later, however, and it was 3-0 to Atleti - and no prized for guessing who scored it.That’s right: Costa swept home Juanfran’s cross from the right flank and celebrated in style.
Video: Costa scores for Atletico
Watch the goal here…
That was Costa’s first competitive goal for Atletico since he scored a penalty in their 3-1 victory over Chelsea in the Champions League back in April 2014.
There was more drama moments later
However, there was more drama moments later when Costa failed to get off the ground after celebrating his goal.
He’d hurt himself in the process and dragged himself behind the goal in order to receive treatment.
Fortunately, he was able to continue, although he was clearly in some discomfort during the remainder of the second half.
TV close-ups showed a few stud marks and a bruise on his knee, per Spanish football journalist Dermot Corrigan.
He had a little bust-up with an opponent
He then got into a bust-up with one of the opposition players before the full-time whistle, you'll all be very shocked to hear.
Costa is Box Office - and it's great to see him back
You’re always guaranteed drama when Costa is on a football pitch. The man is Box Office and it’s great to have him back.
He will now be hoping to make his first start of the season when Atleti host Getafe at the Wanda Metropolitano on Saturday.