Antonio Conte broke out in laughter in response to a question about Diego Costa’s “criminal” comments. Many in the press room joined in, showing how thin Costa’s act has worn.
Antonio Conte was remarkably upbeat and nonchalant in his pre-match press conference. He used the word “work” several dozen times, and towards the end noted it is his favourite English word: “I like a lot this word: work. I use it a lot.” Conte joked about playing a goalkeeper in midfield, given his shortness of options. He also did a bit of an interpretive dance to explain the basic economics of the transfer market: teams buy players (lots of reporting), teams sell players (not as much reporting) and balance ensues
The highlight, though, was his spontaneous, unrestrained laughter when asked about Diego Costa saying Chelsea treat him like “a criminal” earlier this week. Conte made no attempt to stifle his reaction. Nor did his press conference wingman, head of communications Steve Atkins, do anything to rein in Conte’s mirth, which soon spread around the room.
“It’s great, it’s great. I prefer to laugh. Yes, it’s great” was the best Antonio Conte could say amongst his laughing.
Does Antonio Conte think Diego Costa is being treated "like a criminal"? The Chelsea manager bursts into laughter! pic.twitter.com/rfkMI0AlL0
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 18, 2017
This was a notable change in tone from last week’s conference. Last week Chelsea were dealing with the public announcement that Diego Costa’s lawyer was examining legal options against the clubs. Conte was stern and succinct, and Steve Atkins quickly interrupted him with a precise, measured statement on the club’s position.
This time around, though, Costa merited no such discretion. Costa flushed any credibility or leverage he had when he welcomed the completely spontaneously unauthorized and unexpected reporter from the Daily Mail into his parent’s house in Brazil. Never one to know when to stop pressing his advantage, Costa careered the situation into the absurd with every statement in that over-glorified press release.
Atletico Madrid are already wary of Diego Costa’s antics. Club captain Gabi rebuked Costa this week, reminding him “when you are part of a club you must respect the badge and try and leave in the best way.” Getting called out by the captain is bad enough. Hearing it from your hopeful captain should be a sign to re-examine your life choices.
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Diego Simeone, Gabi and others will surely see this clip of Antonio Conte. They already must be reconsidering why they should invite such drama into their house. Conte’s mocking laughter is a sign of what is at the end of their road.