Despite pushing the boundaries with officials, the Spain coach does not want the forward to change his way of playing
Costa's attitude has been questioned after a number of high-profile on-field clashes, but he has also been in fine form for Chelsea this season, scoring 17 times in the Premier League for Antonio Conte's frontrunners.
And Lopetegui has told the 28-year-old not to change, as he loves Costa's competitive nature.
"If you are with us it is because we consider that your presence is important," the coach told the media and Costa ahead of a World Cup qualifier against Israel. "We love you just the way you are.
"He has many good things and many to improve. We want him a little angry. Not a lot, but a little, yes, because he expresses this in his football as always.
"We love that part of Diego and we look for it."
"We respect what he said and that is it," Lopetegui added. "This week we have spoken, but we have other priorities like to prepare for this match.
"We want to play at the World Cup and the three points against Israel are a priority for us."
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