Mourinho (L) and Conte (R) both managed Chelsea
Former Chelsea striker Diego Costa, has opened up about his contrasting experiences under Antonio Conte and José Mourinho during a revealing appearance on The Obi One Podcast.
During the interview, host Mikel Obi mentioned Conte’s strict approach to diet and discipline, which prompted Costa to dig deeper into the Italian coach’s intense personality.
“I remember he was very strict with the food, the discipline,” Obi started.
Costa responded with a blunt behind-the-scenes account.
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“It wasn’t just the food. It was the energy. I used to look at him and think, ‘Maybe this guy doesn’t have sex at home.’ Honestly! Because he arrives at the training ground at 8:00 AM, and he is already screaming,” he said.
He then detailed the full extent of Conte’s fiery temperament.
“He’s angry at the grass, angry at the ball, angry at the doctor. If you are happy at home, you don’t come to work to fight with everyone for no reason,” he added.
Costa then drew a sharp contrast with Mourinho, describing the Portuguese tactician as far more balanced and approachable.
“For me, Mourinho was the opposite. Mourinho gives you life. You come to training happy because he knows when to be serious and when to joke. Conte? No jokes. Only anger. He treated us like we were in the army, not a football team,” he said.
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