Though Diego Costa has quickly established himself as one of the most formidable players in the Premier League, the language barrier has limited his ability to express himself primarily to his many goals and even more confrontations on the pitch. The one memorable quote we do have from Costa’s time in London so far comes from the second-hand tale of when he had Oscar round up their three toughest teammates (John Terry, Gary Cahill, and Branislav Ivanovic) on his first day and told them “I come into battle. You come with me.”

This sounds like a line from an old samurai film, but as Costa’s new interview with Sport Magazine reveals, this is actually how he talks. Naturally, this interview has several quotes that need to be highlighted.

First things first, the Brazilian born Spain international confirms that he was named after Argentina legend Diego Maradona. So it seems he was always destined to betray his homeland.

“I know my father called my brother Jair as a tribute to [1970 World Cup winner] Jairzinho. When I asked him about the origin of my name, he said that when I was born, Diego Armando Maradona was the big thing. I guess my father just loves football!”

Like many great warriors, Costa comes from humble beginnings, but holds his family dear. He uses this to fuel his determination to survive and prosper.

“If you want to achieve something, you must have a goal in life. In my case, being a football player was a dream; my real obsession was to give my family a better life, no matter what.”

And, like any white-knuckled badass, he seems to have a talent for one-liners.

“My life wasn’t easy, neither are my games.”

And he describes his tackles the way a medieval knight would describe his swordsmanship.

“My challenges on the ball are strong but noble at the same time.”

But he also knows a worthy adversary when he sees one.

“Zlatan is a beast.”

I strongly recommend you read the interview in full.