What would you risk to play in the biggest cup final in the world of football?
Replacing Diego Costa With Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez A Mistake For Atletico Madrid?
For Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa, the answer is everything. Per Spanish outlet AS, the 25-year-old traveled to Belgrade to see Marijana Kovacevic, a Serbian doctor well-known for using horse placenta to treat muscle injuries. Costa is in search of a "miracle cure" just to feature in the UEFA Champions League final on Saturday. That, however, could put his World Cup chances in jeopardy should he feature and reaggravate his hamstring.
For obvious reasons, Spain head coach Vicente del Bosque is concerned (h/t to AS). "It is normal that a player wants to be there [at the UEFA Champions League final], because it is not just another game but the European Cup final," Bosque said.
Diego Simeone Not Ruling Out Diego Costa For Champions League Final
"But he cannot go against his own health. His team, Atletico, and the player himself are those who have to weigh up the situation and the consequences," he added.
Club president Enrique Cerezo took a step further when asked about the immediate playing future of his star striker (h/t to AS). "It depends on this horse [placenta] that he's going to be treated with," Cerezo said.
"I don't know because I'm not a doctor, and to be honest, if it's harmful to him, then it's best if he doesn't play," he added.
"If he doesn't play, whoever plays in his position will do phenomenally well."
Finding a replacement for Costa should remain the only priority for manager Diego Simeone. The most obvious choice for the Argentine is a pairing featuring David Villa and Adrian. It won't strike the same fear that an attacking threat featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale does, but this is Atletico Madrid.
They haven't struck fear into anyone this season. That hasn't stopped them from achieving historic success.
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