Diego Costa disagrees with Xabi Alonso over Spain’s World Cup mental state

Spain’s Diego Costa

Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa has hit out at compatriot Xabi Alonso, saying that he disagreed with his team-mates comments surrounding the desire of the national team.

Spain have been eliminated from the World Cup at the group stage, only the fifth reigning champion to suffer this fate, and after their 2-0 defeat to Chile Alonso claimed that the squad were not mentally prepared.

Brazilian born Costa – who switched allegiances to Spain last year - has responded angrily to the criticism though, telling reporters that he believed that every single member of the squad was prepared for the challenge.

“I don’t agree with his comments. Everybody here was focused on winning,” Costa said.

“I’m here because I wanted to win, I wanted to reach the final and do a good job, but it wasn’t to be. We obviously lacked something, but in terms of quality we’re superior to many other teams.”

Costa was a revelation for Atletico Madrid this season as the striker allowed the club to easily forget about the departure of star striker Radamel Falcao. His form was so good that Costa has been linked to Chelsea, who have already signed his international team-mate Cesc Fabregas.

After losing to the Netherlands and Chile Spain now have just one game left in Brazil, against Australia who have already been knocked out as well.