Diego Godin, widely regarded as one of the world’s best defenders, has announced he is to leave Atletico Madrid at the end of the season. The 33-year-old Uruguayan international’s contract is up in June and he revealed that although he wanted to stay put, he had been unable to reach an agreement over a new deal. Godin is now expected to join Serie A giants Inter Milan, although he refused to confirm on Tuesday what lies in store for him in the future.
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An emotional Godin, who joined Atleti from Villarreal in 2010, told assembled media: “This isn’t just a club for me, it’s also been my family and it’s very hard to say goodbye.” He added: “I wanted to stay at this club but we couldn’t reach an agreement. I would love to play here until I’m 40 years old, but it’s impossible.”
Godin also confirmed that Manchester United had tried to sign him last summer only for him to turn down a move to Old Trafford. Godin has played 387 times for Atletico and has helped them win numerous trophies, including the 2013/14 La Liga title.
He scored the title-clinching goal against Barcelona at the Nou Camp that season. Other honours won include two Europa League crowns, one Copa del Rey and three UEFA Super Cups. He narrowly missed out on winning the Champions League, with Atletico twice losing in the final to city rivals Real during his time at the club.
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