Diego Costa has written a farewell message to Chelsea's "wonderful" fans after the club confirmed his sale to Atletico Madrid.
Costa has sealed his £59million return Madrid after three years in west London that saw him lift the Premier League trophy twice. Atltico's transfer embargo means the deal for will take effect from January 1.
The Spain international, who will watch Chelsea and Atletico face each other in the Champions League on Wednesday night, used an Instagram post to say his goodbyes to Chelsea fans and staff.
He wrote: “Some cycles begin while others end. My cycle began at Chelsea three years ago – three remarkable years in all aspects – and I will never forget it.
"Two championship titles, a Community Shield, 120 matches, 59 goals and 24 assists later this cycle has ended. Not the way I would have wanted – far from it – but the best way possible.
"The wonderful fans of such equally admirable club and all team mates, as well as clinical, administrative and logistics staff will remain forever in my mind and in my heart.
"I will bring them with me in the certainty that I will always be by their side as well and I’m sure they will understand the reason why this cycle of mine has now ended – because I could not lose faith in myself. Thank you Chelsea for everything.”
Blues manager Antonio Conte, meanwhile, insists he has no problems with his former striker and will shake hands with him if they meet again.
“As I said before, I have no problem with Diego Costa," said Conte. "I said that we wish, for him, the best for the future.
“We want to thank him for the last season. But, I repeat, I have no problem with him.”