Football
Jason Davis, U.S. soccer writer 8y

Diego Godin, DF, Atletico Madrid & Uruguay: #CopaRank: No. 18

Welcome to #CopaRank, a weeklong look at the top 25 players we expect to see at the Copa America Centenario. Over 50 ESPN FC experts and writers from around the globe voted, and we're rolling out the results right up to opening day, U.S. vs. Colombia, on Friday.

Why is Diego Godin in the top 25?

Godin's Atletico Madrid side is built to defend and counter. Because of this quality, the Uruguayan is a linchpin standing resolute in the center of the back line. He's excellent in the air, isn't prone to errors and marshals the Atleti defense to make sure that the opposition doesn't get any good looks at goal. Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone trusts him implicitly and rarely removes Godin from the starting lineup. He doesn't get the accolades many think he deserves, but among those who follow the Spanish league and Atleti's success in Europe with a watchful eye, Godin is considered to be one of the best defenders in the world.

What the experts say about Godin:

"His work and the way that he approaches the game mentally put him in a very special place. That's why we insisted that the club make an effort to keep him." -- Simeone.

"Diego Godin. We don't have any highlights of him, but this guy is a good player." -- Eamon Dunphy, RTE Ireland.

Career highlight:

Godin was a central figure in Atletico Madrid's amazing 2013-14 season, when they won La Liga and progressed all the way to the Champions League final against city rivals Real Madrid. He played 44 matches that season, chipping in six goals along the way.

Stat of the season:

Godin led Atletico Madrid with 3.3 interceptions per game in 2015-16.

What's next for Godin after the Copa America Centenario?

Godin signed a new contract that added a year to his deal, potentially keeping him in Madrid with Atleti until 2019. This doesn't mean that the Uruguayan doesn't have suitors, and a good Copa America tournament would only increase the buzz around him.


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