Diego Godin officially completed his move to Inter on a free transfer this morning.
Inter announced the Uruguayan defender’s arrival at 0600 CET in order to coincide with prime time in Asia.
Godin will take an extended holiday after Uruguay’s run to the Copa America quarter-finals before joining the Nerazzurri in preseason later this month.
“Godin is known to all as the ‘jefe de la defensa’,” Inter wrote in an official statement.
“Now, his ability, experience and that famous ‘garra’ will be at the service of the Nerazzurri. Best of luck for this new adventure at Inter. Welcome Diego!”
Inter also outlined Godin’s exceptional career to date, praising the 33-year-old’s aerial prowess and eulogising his leadership qualities.
“You need heritage to compete. Godin knows his history and he’s written plenty of it.
“He started in Rosario, Uruguay where he was born on 16 February 1986. Standing at 186cm tall, he’s reached the heights of European football in more ways than one.
“Godin played youth football in Montevideo, starting out at Defensor Sporting. That was followed by three seasons at Cerro, still in the capital. He joined Nacional in the 2006-7 season before heading to Europe and Villarreal. In 2010, he signed for Atletico Madrid.
“On the pitch, he always look to rise highest and be the first to aerial balls. In Madrid, Godin became a key player for the Colchoneros’ defence and an icon for all the supporters.
“A leader and a role model. He won La Liga once (2013-14) and it was Godin’s goal on the final day against Barcelona that secured the title. He also won one Copa del Rey, one Spanish Supercup, three European Supercups and two Europa League titles.
With Uruguay, he is still writing history for the Celeste. So far, Godin has made 131 international appearances and scored eight goals. In 2011, he won the Copa America with his country.”