Chelsea's Diego Costa extends helping hand to underprivileged children in Brazil

Diego Costa was born in Brazil but represents Spain in the national setup

When Chelsea striker Diego Costa isn’t terrifying defenders on the pitch, the Brazilian born Spanish international spends his time helping to improve the lives of youngsters back in his hometown of Lagarto in Brazil. Costa, who chose to represent Spain in last year’s World Cup held in Brazil, has started a project to help the children of his place of birth escape the clutches of drugs and crime; which is rampant in Brazil.

The striker, in an interview with the official Chelsea website, explained how the project, involving both education and football would benefit the children.

He said, “I started with this project with the help of my agent, and the main goal is to open some doors for the kids that I didn’t have open for myself. I wanted to help the kids stay away from the streets, stay away from drugs, and the academy can only bring new things to these kids. There is more to win than to lose.

“The school is not a big thing yet. I originally thought I had to give something back to my city, that’s why I created this. Lagarto is a small town so it will grow little by little. We’ve got great professionals working in there. The kids have food, good medication, a good quality of life, there is nothing missing.

“The coaches are always happy and open to help with anything. Some of the kids may not become professionals in the future, but they will be better people.

“The main target is education rather than football. I want children to attend the school and not miss any days. I don’t have any lucrative aim, and I am happy to have this school.”