MADRID, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Spanish Liga Santander side Atletico Madrid confirmed on Monday that the club's Spanish international striker Diego Costa will have an operation in an attempt to clear up a long-standing foot injury.
The operation is likely to leave the Brazilian-born forward out of action for around two months.
The foot problem has so far meant that Costa's second spell at the club has been disappointing, with just four goals from 26 league appearances and just one goal in 11 games this season, which was against FC Barcelona nine days ago.
"Diego Costa is to be operated on in Brazil this week due to ongoing pain in his left foot."
"After considering all the possible options, the decision has been made to undertake the operation in Brazil, supervised by Atletico Madrid's medical services," confirmed a statement on the club's website.
Atletico added that Costa "who had an operation on the fifth metatarsal of his left foot 12 years ago, has been enduring ongoing pain due to foot trauma suffered three weeks ago."
By operating on Costa now, Atletico hope to assure that he will be fit for the knockout stages of the Champions League, which this season will be celebrated in the club's Wanda Metropolitano stadium.
