Chelsea striker Diego Costa was the centre of an incident that could have been blown out of proportion. Fortunately, Antonio Conte defused the situation expertly.
Chelsea ran out comfortable 3-0 winners on Saturday, disposing of reigning Premier League champions Leicester City with ease. However, amongst the euphoria there was an incident involving Diego Costa that threatened to steal the spotlight. Antonio Conte, though, handled the matter expertly, yet again showing Blues fans why he is perfect for this job.
After the game had been effectively won, Costa began to furiously gesture over to the bench in order to be substituted. Given that another yellow card would rule him out of this weekend’s huge clash with Manchester United and a returning Jose Mourinho, there was reason to bring him off.
However, he was incensed by Conte’s reluctance to substitute him and his behaviour was deemed inappropriate by many on-lookers. Conte did not bend to the striker’s protests and left him on.
Speaking after the game, the boss was keen to emphasise Costa’s contributions to the team and admitted that he took a chance.
"He has a good personality and we need this in every moment of the game. I know I risked it today…I decide [about substitutions]. Me, every single substitution. I take the responsibility in every situation, in positive or negative situations. It’s always my decision. – via Evening Standard"
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Initially, Conte took the only correct course of action in this situation and essentially told Costa to shut up and get on with it. To Costa’s credit, his frustration did not hinder his efforts on the field, as he continued to chase down every ball.
Nonetheless, Conte made clear that he is the man in charge and that his players will not be able to coax him into anything. Smart managers will undoubtedly take suggestions from their charges on board, but to be dictated to in such a manner is inappropriate.
The key point in this case is that the striker only had good intentions. He knew how important he would be for Chelsea in the Manchester United game and was aware that a yellow card would rule him out. Given that the game was all but won, it seemed like the percentage move to make.
However, the fact that he tried to make Conte’s decision for him in a relatively rude fashion meant that a controversy could have arisen. The Italian’s actions at the time, and his words after the final whistle, have prevented that from happening.
The way Conte dealt with this situation is just further evidence that he is the strong leader that Chelsea need at this time. The Blues need someone to whip them into shape and restore discipline, Antonio Conte looks more and more suitable with each day.