Sydney FC star Douglas Costa delivered the perfect response to comparisons with former Sky Blues marquee and Italian legend Alessandro Del Piero.
Costa and Sydney are preparing for Saturday night’s blockbuster derby against crosstown rivals Western Sydney Wanderers at CommBank Stadium as the 2024-25 Isuzu UTE A-League season gets underway.
The Sydney Derby will mark Costa’s A-Leagues debut after the former Brazil, Juventus and Bayern Munich star signed for the five-time champions in August.
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When asked about comparisons between Del Piero’s arrival in Sydney 12 years ago and Costa’s in September, the Brazilian told reporters: “I don’t get pressure because Alessandro is the only one that is Del Piero.
“He’s the only one. So I’m never going to compare with him.
“He was my idol as well in Juventus and if he wants to come back, I’d like to play with him as well!”
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This weekend’s rivalry showdown will pit two superstars against each other – Costa and former Spain, Chelsea and Manchester United attacker Juan Mata.
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Amid the hype ahead of the clash, Costa said: “I feel really good. I know there’s a lot of expectations in these games.
“I’m looking forward to playing my first derby.
“Wherever I go, on my mind I always try to get some titles and here is no different. I’m going to fight for that.”
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