Diego Godín: Biography, Facts and Career

Diego Roberto Godín Leal (born 16 February 1986) is a Uruguayan former professional footballer who played as a centre-back. Regarded as one of the best defenders of his generation, he started out at Cerro and three years later was transferred to Primera División side Nacional. He then spent the majority of his career in Spain, representing Villarreal and Atlético Madrid and winning eight titles with the latter club, including the La Liga championship in the 2013–14 season. He also played in Italy with Inter Milan and Cagliari, in Brazil with Atlético Mineiro and in Argentina with Vélez Sarsfield, retiring in 2023. A Uruguay international from 2005 to 2022, Godín is the country's all-time most-capped player. He represented the national side at four World Cups and six Copa América tournaments, winning the 2011 edition of the latter competition.

== Early life == Godín was born in Rosario to Julio Godín and Iris Leal. Aged 4, during a family gathering, he nearly drowned after trying to catch fish in a river, but eventually swam to shore without the help of anybody.

== Club career ==

=== Uruguay and Villarreal === Godín started his professional career with Cerro at the age of 17. After his...

Quick facts about Diego Godín

• Full name: Diego Godín
• Born: 1986-02-16
• Nationality: Uruguay
• Known as: Athlete
• Wikidata ID: Q214903

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