Chelsea striker Diego Costa completed his £57m return to Atletico Madrid following a protracted and rather bitter summer saga.

The Brazilian born forward fell out publicly with Italian boss Antonio Conte after learning that he was no longer in his manager's plans by text message.

Signed in 2014, Costa was the club's top scorer in each of the past three seasons and led the Blues to two Premier League titles.

His replacement Alvaro Morata has started his Chelsea career in blistering form, scoring six goals in his opening six Premier League outings - including a stunning hat-trick away at Stoke over the weekend.

Costa is unable to play until January due to Atletico's transfer embargo but will hope to challenge Morata for a place in the Spanish starting XI at the 2018 Russia World Cup.

He penned a touching farewell message on social media and is expected to be unveiled as an Atletico player on Wednesday night when they host Chelsea in the Champions League in their new stadium.

Unsurprisingly, there was no mention of Conte but it has been reported that the 28-year-old forward is planning to bury the hatchet with his former boss in the tunnel tonight.

Costa wrote on his Facebook page: "Some cycles begin while others end. My cycle at Chelsea began three years ago - three remarkable years in all aspects - and I will never forget it.

"Two championship titles, a Community Shield, 120 matches, 59 goals and 24 assists later this cycle has ended. Not the way I would have wanted - far from it - but the best way possible.

"The wonderful fans of such equally admirable club and all team-mates, as well as all clinical, administrative and logistics staff will remain forever in my mind and in my heart.

"Will bring them with me with the certainty that I will always be by their side as well, and I'm sure they will understand the reason why this cycle of mine has now ended - because I could not lose faith in myself. Thank you Chelsea for everything!"

He's an entertainer and, despite what fans of rivals clubs may say, Costa will definitely be a loss to the Premier League.