Real Madrid determined to snatch prized figure from Chelsea

Chelsea striker Diego Costa has admitted that he was “wrong” to throw a bib at his manager, Jose Mourinho, but insists that the incident has not affected his “amazing” relationship with the Portuguese.

“He is happy here, he likes to be here”, the Portuguese told reporters ahead of Monday’s Premier League clash against third-placed Leicester City.

Mourinho also said the Brazil-born Spain striker’s lack of confidence was clear against Porto, where Costa forced a lucky break in an opening goal after which the visitors could not respond.

Real failed to win a trophy last season under Ancelotti, but Ronaldo spoke positively of the Italian, noting he was a more humble figure than expected: “I initially [thought] that he was going to be an arrogant person but he was the total opposite”. I don’t see that as a problem.

But Mourinho said: “Last year he had a huge responsibility for the quality of our team, he was fundamental”. The main thing you’ve got to think about is you’ve got the best manager in the world there… fact.

Mourinho managed Real Madrid for three years but left in 2013 after a trophy-less season.

But he believes now it is “too easy” for foreign managers to be appointed Premier League bosses, stifling the development of native talent. “So in this moment I am less anxious than I was”.

Mourinho says there are “lots of good coaches” in England and it is down to them to take their opportunity. “We are confident he will be back to his best very soon”.

“That’s an example of clubs that can keep on to their best players”. I have to improve a bit.

“I know maybe you come back immediately with Diego and Hazard, they are not scoring goals, but the way they played against Porto they have to score goals”.