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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Alex Richards

Diego Godin announces Atletico Madrid exit and confirms Manchester United rejection

Atletico Madrid captain Diego Godin has confirmed that he will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of June.

The Uruguay international, 33, fought back tears as he declared that his nine-year stay with Los Rojiblancos would be coming to an end on Tuesday.

Godin, has played 387 times for Atleti since arriving from Villarreal in 2010, scoring 27 goals - including the header against Barcelona which sealed the Spanish title in 2014 - and establishing himself as one of the world's best centre-backs.

The veteran declined to comment on his next move, but is expected to join Inter Milan in Italy on a two-year deal.

Godin couldn't fight back the tears (REUTERS)

"I'm a little nervous, much more than I am before a game, but I have called everyone here to inform you that these are my final days at the club," Godin said.

"The most beautiful cycle of my sporting career and my life is over. I'm proud to have been on this beautiful stage, part of the history of this beautiful club.

"Thanks to everyone. This is not just a club for me, it has been a family, a way of life, my home.”

Diego Godin and Atletico Madrid President Enrique Cerezo (REUTERS)

As well as Atleti's La Liga triumph, Godin also landed two Europa League titles, one Copa del Rey, one Spanish Super Cup and three UEFA Super Cups.

Diego Simeone's men have also reached two Champions League finals, only to lose both times to city rivals Real Madrid .

He also confirmed that he rejected a switch to Manchester United last summer, to stay at the Wanda Metropolitano.

"I refused Manchester United's bid one year ago because I decided to stay at Atlético Madrid," he added. "Now - one year later - it's time to go.

"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."

Diego Godin is expected to join Inter next year (REUTERS)

Atletico president Enrique Cerezo said: "“This is a very special day for Atletico Madrid, the whole family have come together to say goodbye to you Diego, an extraordinary player who gave everything over nine seasons.

"You have been a great example both on and off the pitch during this best ever stage of our club.

"Your gestures - like the goal at the Camp Nou which was worth a La Liga title - deserve to be recognised forever.

"You have fought in a thousand battles and defended the club's shirt in every game and you have worn the captain's armband.

"Next year you will continue your pro career at another club, but you will always have the support of all Atleticos, throughout your career.

"Atletico Madrid is your family and the Wanda Metropolitano is your home."

Godin's departure leaves another hole in Atletico's defence, after France international Lucas Hernandez agreed to join join Bayern Munich in June. The German giants have paid his €80million release clause.

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