Atletico Madrid chief stirs the pot, reminds Diego Costa of Chelsea's upcoming lack of Champions League

Atlético Madrid face one of their toughest, yet potentially most glorious tests of the season on Wednesday when they welcome fellow La Liga powerhouse Barcelona to the Vicente Calderón.  Atléti are up against a one-goal deficit, but they do have the away goal courtesy of none other than Fernando Torres (he's finally ... back??).

Regardless of whether they manage to overcome the odds or not, their position as one of the big three in Spain has been ensured for another season.  Just the fact that they've made that a three-horse rather than the usual two-horse race should be celebrated.  Their recent success on the European stage should not be ignored as a fluke either.  Full credit to the players, coaches, and of course all the shady and non-shady financiers of the team.

It is from this position of power that Atléti president Enrique Cerezo, a name that has appeared on this blog multiple times over the past couple seasons given all of our transfer dealings with them, has decided to stir the pot once again.

"I think it's difficult [Costa coming home] but as far as we are concerned we would love it if he came back here."

"It's the Atleti way [to speak with former players from time to time]. We have a magnificent relationship with all ex-coaches and players. I went to see Simeone in Argentina when he was at River Plate, that is the way it is with Costa. Whether he can come back or not is another thing but the relationship has always been fantastic. He is OK because he is at a good club. I don't know whether they will be in the Champions League this year."

-Enrique Cerezo; source: Mail

I see you trolling, Enrique.  Of course we won't be in the Champions League this year.  I see what you're up to.  Don't act all innocent.

But Diego Costa is ours and under contract for three more years.  So hands off.  We'll need him to get back into the Champions League pronto.