Diogo Costa stayed at FC Porto: “The fans’ love drives me on” | OneFootball

Diogo Costa spoke about staying at FC Porto and the responsibility that comes with the role he holds, without hiding his connection with the fans. Ahead of a Champions League fixture, the goalkeeper also spoke about the level of demand placed on those preparing for their debut in the competition and the need to balance alertness with calm. At the heart of his message was the ambition to compete, and he assured: “it is always a joy to see Porto fans happy”.

At a time when FC Porto are preparing to test their DNA on the Champions League stage, Diogo Costa appeared before the press with a calm and composed message. The goalkeeper acknowledged the affection he receives, but pointed to the response he wants to give on the pitch: preparation, commitment and the ability to deal with every detail.

Asked about the weight of having stayed at FC Porto, Diogo Costa did not shy away from the responsibility, although he refused to turn it into a burden. In his words, the support from the stands is an added boost.

“I feel that weight and I don’t. I have always prepared in the same way,” he said. “I really feel the affection of the fans and it is something that gives me even more motivation. I know I am being supported by a lot of people and, for my part, it is always a joy to see Porto fans happy.”

There is a clear awareness of the scale of his bond with Porto’s supporters, but also an attempt to preserve the routine that underpins performance. Diogo Costa places the answer in hard work and turns the fans’ recognition into a source of greater demand.

As one of the more experienced players, the goalkeeper was also asked to explain what he tries to convey to those about to make their debut. The Champions League, he argued, provides the necessary competitive alert on its own, but emotional balance is still essential.

“The motivational factor alone of playing in the Champions League gives us the necessary alertness to be in the best possible shape for the match. What I have to convey is that whenever there is a bigger mistake, it will be paid for dearly. Motivation will put us in a very high state of alert,” he stressed. “But we also have to calm things down a little so we can enjoy the experience and do the job in the best possible way. We will want to compete and show our DNA, which is what matters most.”

The picture is of a team that will have to respect the very small margin for error without becoming trapped by it. Between concentration and the freedom to live the moment, Diogo Costa points to a simple idea: compete with identity.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.