Diego Costa quits Atletico Madrid

Striker’s contract was terminated by mutual consent after he asked to leave ‘for personal reasons’

Diego Costa has spent three spells at Atletico during his career (AFP via Getty Images)

Diego Costa has left Atletico Madrid with immediate effect.

The news was announced by the La Liga club on Tuesday afternoon.

“Atletico de Madrid and Diego Costa have reached an agreement for the termination of the striker’s contract, which was to end on June 30, 2021,” a statement read.

“The striker asked to leave the club for personal reasons a few days ago and on Tuesday signed the termination of his contract.

“The club thanks Diego Costa for his dedication during these years and wishes him well in the next stage of his professional career.”

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Costa, 32, first joined Atletico in 2007. His first spell at the club ended in 2009 following loan moves to Braga, Celta Vigo and Albacete. Across those two years, the striker made no first-team appearances for his parent club.

Costa then spent a year with Valladolid before returning to Atletico. His second spell with the club brought a Copa del Rey trophy in 2013 and a La Liga title in 2014, the latter accolade preceding a summer move to Chelsea.

After winning two Premier League titles and a League Cup with the Blues, the Spain international returned to Atletico in January 2018.

Costa managed two La Liga goals in seven appearances this season before the termination of his contract.