Football Biography

Diego Godín

“Godín”

Uruguayan · Rosario, Uruguay · Born 16 February 1986

Centre Back

389

atlético apps

161

uruguay caps

2014

la liga

europa league

Warrior-like Uruguayan centre-back who was the heartbeat of Atlético Madrid's defensive excellence under Diego Simeone.

Diego Roberto Godín Leal was born in Rosario, Uruguay on 16 February 1986. He joined Atlético Madrid from Villarreal in 2010 and became the defensive leader of one of the best defensive teams in European football. Under Diego Simeone, he was instrumental in winning La Liga in 2014, ending Barcelona and Real Madrid's duopoly, and reached two Champions League finals. His heading, positioning and leadership were exceptional. He made over 380 appearances for Atlético and scored the goal that effectively won the 2014 La Liga title. He earned 161 caps for Uruguay. He later played for Inter Milan, Cagliari and Vélez Sársfield.

Best Known For

La Liga 2014

He headed the goal against Barcelona that essentially clinched the 2014 La Liga title, ending a decade-long duopoly by Barca and Real Madrid.

Did You Know?

Honours & Achievements

Career Honours

La Liga 2014
Europa League 2x
Copa América 2011

Career Journey

Timeline

1986 👶 Born in Rosario, Uruguay

2022 🏁 Retired from professional sport

🏟️ Nacional

🏟️ Atletico Madrid

🏟️ Inter Milan

🏟️ Estudiantes (2021-2022)

🏆 La Liga 2014

🏆 Europa League 2x

🏆 Copa América 2011

AtléTico Apps	389
Uruguay Caps	161
La Liga	2014
Europa League	2

Club	Shirt No	Apps	Goals
Nacional	#2	—	7
Atletico Madrid	#12	372
Inter Milan	#12	60
Estudiantes (2021-2022)	#12	37

Nationality	Uruguayan
Born	16 February 1986 (age 40)
Birth Place	Rosario, Uruguay
Position	Centre Back
Retired	2022
Clubs	Nacional (2003-06), Villarreal (2007-10), Atlético Madrid (2010-19), Inter Milan (2019-21), Cagliari (2021-22), Vélez Sársfield (2022-23)
Est. Net Worth	$10m

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

5 common questions about Diego Godín

What did Godín achieve at Atlético Madrid?

He won La Liga in 2014, two Europa Leagues, and reached two Champions League finals.

Did Godín score important goals?

Yes, his header against Barcelona essentially won the 2014 La Liga title for Atlético.

How many Uruguay caps did Godín earn?

He earned 161 caps for Uruguay, one of their most capped players.

What was Godín's playing style?

An old-fashioned warrior defender — tough in the tackle, dominant in the air, exceptional leader.

When was Diego Godín born?

Diego Godín was born on 16 February 1986 in Rosario, Uruguay.

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