Matias Vecino has sung the praises of fellow countryman and former Inter teammate Diego Godin after he helped keep Cagliari in Serie A.
Inter signed Godin from Atletico Madrid in 2019 and benefited from his class and experience to reach the UEFA Europa League final, while also finishing second in the league.
The Uruguay defender did not enjoy as much game time as he wanted at times, but he never let Antonio Conte’s decisions affect his mood or spirit.
“Godin is an example (for others),” Vecino said while appearing on the Colpo di Testa podcast with Federico Mari.
“He was out of the team for lots of games when he was with us at Inter, but you could see how he trained and how he conducted himself, like a champion.
“Leaving aside the trophies he’s won, people remember the person and the professional.”
Inter released Godin at the end of last season and the centre-back ended up joining Cagliari, who narrowly avoided relegation to Serie B after a disastrous middle part of the season.
Leonardo Semplici eventually steered them clear of trouble and the 35-year-old played a pivotal role in the Rossoblu’s survival push.
“It’s not easy to leave Inter and find yourself battling against relegation,” Vecino argued.
“I know how much Godin has suffered this year, it was a new situation for him.
“What he’s done at Cagliari is a success, and I don’t just say that because he’s my friend.”
Godin has made 139 appearances for Uruguay’s national team, of which he is captain, scoring eight goals for the Celeste.
