Diego Costa would like to go back and play club football in Brazil before his career ends despite switching his international allegiance to Spain, the Chelsea striker has told ESPN.
Brazil-born Costa made two friendly appearances for La Canarinha, before surprisingly declaring for Spain and representing his new nation at last summer's World Cup in his home country.
Despite the controversy that caused in his homeland, the former Atletico Madrid centre-forward has told ESPN Brazil that he still wants to come back to play in the Brazilian league while he is still able to perform at a competitive level.
"I am Brazilian, I love my city [Sao Paolo] and I love Brazil," Costa said. "I do not rule out returning to Brazil some day, that is something I would like to do, but not necessarily to Palmeiras just because they are my team. I also like the clubs from Rio de Janeiro and Rio Grande del Sur.
"I have no intention to go back there to retire, I want to play when I am still fit, because I know the fans are very demanding."
Costa's switch of allegiance was controversial in Brazil, with former Selecao coach Phil Scolari expressing his displeasure, but the 26-year-old said his conscience remained fully clear over the decision he made.
"It does not worry me," he said. "Everything can happen in this life. And what happens on the pitch stays on the pitch. I do know it was not my fault. Some things annoyed me because I believe people must be shown respect.
"I achieved my dream of playing for Brazil, and then came the chance to defend the Spain shirt. I lived there for a long time, and thought I could not let the opportunity go."
Spain open their 2018 World Cup qualifying on Sept. 5 against Liechtenstein before facing Italy on Oct. 6.