Diego Godin believes Inter and Antonio Conte share “many things” with Diego Simeone and his title-winning Atletico Madrid side of 2013-14.
Godin was a key member of Simeone’s Atleti between 2010 and 2019, helping them win La Liga and two Europa Leagues, as well as reach two Champions League Finals.
The defender joined Inter over the summer, and he suggested Conte’s presence helped him make his mind up.
“I see many things in this Inter that remind me of the Atletico side who won La Liga in 2013-14,” he told DAZN.
Diego Godin believes Inter and Antonio Conte share “many things” with Diego Simeone and his title-winning Atletico Madrid side of 2013-14.
Godin was a key member of Simeone’s Atleti between 2010 and 2019, helping them win La Liga and two Europa Leagues, as well as reach two Champions League Finals.
The defender joined Inter over the summer, and he suggested Conte’s presence helped him make his mind up.
“I see many things in this Inter that remind me of the Atletico side who won La Liga in 2013-14,” he told DAZN.
“The atmosphere in the dressing room, the team spirit, the desire to be together, to work and do well.
“Then there’s the enthusiasm of the fans. The fans are feeling the right things, but the right thing to start with is always the Coach: I had Cholo Simeone in Madrid and have Conte here.
“It’s crucial to have Coaches like them, with a character that always drives you on. We must do what Atletico did and go game by game.
“They’re very similar. Look at how they live through games. A player on the pitch perceives that energy, and I can guarantee you that it’s the same in training.
“Having a Coach who believes in their ideas with that strength is crucial for a player, at any point of the season.”
The Uruguayan was then asked about Saturday’s derby with city rivals Milan.
“I’ve never played in it, but I know what it’s about. I’ve watched it on TV. I know how to live and play a ‘Clasico’ like this.
“I know what it means to the fans. These are games where you must make them proud, regardless of the outcome.
“That’s because fans are crucial, even in European successes. A club needs the enthusiasm and drive of its fans in the positive and less positive moments, which inevitably will occur.
“In addition to the project, the players and Coach, you need the fans to support you and, at the same time, they must demand the players to do well in Europe.
“Inter have all of this.”