Wednesday, 6th November, 2013
Diego Costa's decision to switch national allegiance from Brazil to Spain has been described as "courageous but correct" by no less than three-time World Cup winner Pele.
Costa confirmed the switch last month, a move that did not go down well with Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari who accused him of "turning his back on millions of dreams".
Costa is now available for World Cup selection with Spain and described his quandary as being between the land of his birth and the country that "gave me everything".
Pele insists the Atletico Madrid forward deserves respect for taking the leap, telling Lancenet: "He has made the right choice.
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"His was a courageous decision, which must be respected. He has been playing in Spain and then chose to play for his adopted nation.
"I understand his decision. We, who are in Brazil, think he should have opted for the Brazilian national team, but it is a matter of perspective. Brazilians have to respect his decision."
Costa has been making waves with Atletico Madrid this season, as the striker has already bagged 13 goals in 12 La Liga games.
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