Atletico Madrid and Uruguay great Diego Godin hangs up boots at 37

Godin played his last game as a professional with Argentine club Velez Sarsfield at the weekend.

He is the most-capped Uruguayan international in history with 161 caps, far surpassing the previous record of 125 appearances made by Maxi Pereira.

The no-nonsense defender spent nine years at Atletico between 2010 and 2019 during which time he won one La Liga title, one Copa Del Rey, one Supercopa De Espana, Two UEFA Europa League trophies, three UEFA Super Cup trophies and feature twice as Champions League runners-up.

"They are tears of joy, from a career with achievements and defeats. More defeats than achievements. With a lot of sacrifice. Always giving my best for my teams, for my teammates, for my people. Always with respect for my rivals. I remember a lot about my family who helped me a lot to be here," Godin said tearfully.

"There have been many years away from home, since I was very young. Representing my teams, my national team, which is the most beautiful thing that could have happened to me. Being captain of my national team. It is a thoughtful decision of a road traveled, a lot of effort that today is over. Thanks to everyone."

About closing his career in Argentina, Godín reaffirmed that "it is a happiness, a pride to play here in a football that comes from being world champion, with great players."

He concluded by paying tribute to Velez. "I came to a great club that helped me a lot and today I have to say goodbye with joy and the peace of mind that he always gave everything in body and soul," concluded Godin.