The Brazilian-born striker has scored 14 goals, picked up five assists and only accumulated five yellow cards from 18 appearances in the Premier League.
He has already beaten his league tally from last term but it isn’t just his statistics that have improved, his general attitude has completely transformed.
There were too many occasions – mostly under Jose Mourinho – where Costa appeared fed up, disenchanted and just generally lackadaisical at Stamford Bridge in 2015/16.
However, Antonio Conte has made the 28-year-old feel valuable again and Costa has revealed the small changes that have made big difference since the Italian came in at the start of the season.
I think it’s really important for managers to be liked by his players because ultimately on the pitch, those players will give everything for their manager,” he told Chelsea TV, as per Goal.
“We have had a change of manager, he is working us hard, but people like him, which is important for everyone connected to the club because it creates a good atmosphere. Sometimes you have managers that have to be the boss, but this manager is a bit friendlier and there is closeness there.
“It is really important to have that at your workplace for you to come in and feel happy. You need a good atmosphere and a bit of fun.”
As already mentioned, Costa’s improved mood behind the scenes has been reflected in his performances on the pitch.
But the former Atletico frontman refused to pin the entire blame of the club’s misfortune last season on Mourinho and thinks the players also have to take some of the responsibility.
He added: “We had a great manager in Mourinho, who gave us a lot in that first season [Costa’s first at the club]. But last season, things just didn’t go well for us.
“We knew we had to change things, it wasn’t just the manager’s fault. We had to put in that bit more too.”
“Also in terms of change, it has been a bit of everything: a new manager and wanting to win things because when you do, it’s wonderful and losing hurts.”
Chelsea haven’t tasted defeat since the 3-0 loss to Arsenal in September and are currently on a 14-match winning run.
Conte’s men now hold a five point lead over second-placed Liverpool and play their game in hand on Wednesday against Tottenham.
A 15th consecutive victory and even their title rivals might have to accept the title is Chelsea’s to lose.
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