Atletico Madrid defender Diego Godin has revealed that the public disagreement between manager Diego Simeone and forward Fernando Torres has been resolved. Earlier last week, Simeone had stated that he would not be fighting with the veteran striker who is unhappy with his present situation, and Godin has now clarified that a solution has been found between both parties.
In an interview with Radio show El Larguero, Godin insisted that no one wanted to choose between two of the club’s biggest idols, and the problem is now ‘over’. He said: “I was not surprised as it [what Simeone said] was taken out of context, but I understood perfectly. A lot was made of it, but the issue is already resolved. They have a normal relationship, with a lot of respect.
“Fernando is a great guy, very respectful. Simeone, too, always talks straight and prioritises the team and results above any name. That is best for the club. Neither Simeone nor Torres is bigger than Atletico Madrid. The worst thing a fan could have is to have to choose between the two biggest idols the club has had in recent years.”
Torres’ agent has already confirmed that this could be the Spaniard’s final year at Atleti, and Godin has cited that no one at the club including Simeone have doubted the 33-year-old’s commitment in training, despite not playing regularly. The likes of Yannick Carrasco and Nico Gaitan left the Capital outfit for a move to Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang earlier in the week, but Godin does not believe Torres will follow the same route.
The former Liverpool man has previously talked up the possibility of retiring with his hometown club, and it will be interesting to see how the Spaniard would react, should he be realised at the expiry of his contract in the summer. Newcastle United, manager by ex-Reds boss, Rafael Benitez have been touted as a possible destination for Torres, should the Magpies remain in the Premier League.