Captain Diego Godin confirms Atletico departure

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Atletico Madrid captain Diego Godin has decided to leave the club after nine years when his contract expires in June, the Uruguayan defender said at a news conference on Tuesday.

"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," the 33-year-old said emotionally.

"It feels painful to say goodbye, but I leave with my head held high after giving everything every day," added tearful Godin.

Meanwhile, Atletico president Enrique Cerezo said, "We are here to say goodbye to an Atletico legend. You have been a vital part of this great era for the club, with your efforts and your goals, like the one which gave us the title at the Nou Camp."

Atletico Madrid's Diego Godin (L) and club President Enrique Cerezo (R) during a press conference in Madrid, Spain, May 7, 2019. /VCG Photo

Godin has played 387 times for Atletico since joining from Villarreal in 2010, scoring 27 goals - including famously clinching the club's first La Liga title in 18 years with a header in a 1-1 draw at Barcelona in 2014.

He is the club's longest-serving player, and its latest high profile servant to leave after Fernando Torres and former captain Gabi Fernandez departed last year.

Godin's departure will leave another hole in Atletico's defense, with France international Lucas Hernandez already agreeing to join Bayern Munich in June after a disappointing season.

As one of the best central defenders in the world, Godin has won La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Europa League twice since joining Atletico from Villarreal in 2010. He also reached the Champions League final in 2014 and 2016. Atletico lost both to Real Madrid.

Godin did not say where he is going, but numerous Spanish media have reported that he is on his way to Italian Serie A club Inter Milan.

(With input from AFP and Reuters)