Nicolás Otamendi Retires From International Football After 2026 World Cup Final

Nicolás Otamendi retires from international football

A Career Concluded at the World Cup Final

Nicolás Otamendi’s international career reached its natural conclusion in the World Cup final against Spain. The defender, who entered the match as a substitute, saw his final appearance end in a 1-0 defeat after extra time. Despite the loss, Otamendi expressed a sense of peace regarding his departure from the squad, stating that he was writing the most difficult words of his career, bidding farewell to the Argentina national team, yet feeling immensely proud to have represented his country, noting that while titles are remembered in history, the love for the national colours endures forever.

Diego Maradona debut in March 2009

Otamendi further noted that fate had decided his final match would be a World Cup final, and while it was not the desired result, he was leaving with his head held high, confident that the squad had given their absolute best until the final second, departing with the peace of mind that he had exhausted all his efforts, never stopped believing, and always regarded the shirt as the greatest honour of his life.

The 38-year-old announced his retirement through a message shared on his Instagram account. His career with the national team spanned 17 years, beginning with a debut under the guidance of Diego Maradona in a friendly match against Panama in March 2009. Over the course of 139 appearances, Otamendi scored eight goals—the last of which came in a friendly against Zambia—and provided three assists.

River Plate free transfer

Honors and Club Transitions

Otamendi’s tenure with Argentina saw him contribute to several major tournament victories. He was a key member of the squads that secured the 2022 World Cup title, Copa América trophies in 2021 and 2024, and the 2023 Finalissima. Throughout his international journey, he played in 21 World Cup matches across four separate tournaments between 2010 and 2026.

At the club level, Otamendi recently joined the Argentinian side River Plate in a free transfer following the conclusion of his contract with the Portuguese club Benfica. His professional trajectory has taken him through several European leagues and organizations, including stints with Vélez, FC Porto, Atlético Mineiro, Valencia, and Manchester City.

Leandro Paredes weighing their futures

The Future of the Argentinian Squad

In his farewell message, Otamendi addressed the next generation of players, encouraging them to maintain their resolve. He urged those who continue to wear the shirt to never stop believing, explaining that although there would be setbacks that appear impossible to overcome, the shirt always rewards those who defend it with humility, sacrifice, and love, and he advised them to hold their heads high, keep fighting, and never allow a defeat to take away their hope, as he remained convinced that the next chapter of their history would belong to them.

While Otamendi is firm in his decision, other members of the squad are currently weighing their futures. Midfielder Leandro Paredes, 32, noted that the team is in a period of reflection following the tournament. Paredes, who faces potential FIFA sanctions for his role in an on-pitch brawl following the final, stated that he needs time to decide whether he will continue representing Argentina.

Paredes remarked that for many players, this would be a time to consider whether to continue their international careers. He added that maintaining the current standard and keeping the group functioning effectively would be very difficult, with many factors to consider, noting that they needed to take their time when making such decisions, and that he was still unsure if he was ready to continue. Reflecting on the tournament result, Paredes conceded that despite the various narratives, Spain had been the better side in the final and were the deserved World Cup winners.