Nicolas Otamendi announced his retirement from international football on July 23 at age 38, concluding a 17-year career with Argentina [1, 2, 3]. He made 139 appearances for the national team and represented Argentina at four World Cups: 2010, 2018, 2022, and 2026 [1, 2, 3, 3].
Otamendi was part of the Argentina squad that won the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles, cementing his place in the nation's history as a world champion [1, 2, 3]. His international career ended after Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final 1-0 to Spain in the United States in July [1, 2, 3]. Referring to that match, Otamendi said, "Today I have to write the most difficult words of my career. As fate would have it, my last match was a World Cup final. It wasn't the result we wanted, but I'm leaving with my head held high, knowing that this team gave it their all right up to the very last second. Thank you, Argentina, for allowing me to fulfil the dream of becoming a world champion" [1].
After 16 years playing in Europe for clubs including Porto, Valencia, Manchester City, and Benfica, Otamendi recently joined Argentine club River Plate [1, 2, 3]. His return to domestic football coincides with the end of his international chapter.
Otamendi's retirement marks the close of one of Argentina's most capped careers. His experience and leadership helped Argentina secure major titles and deep tournament runs.
Upcoming details on Otamendi's plans post-retirement have not yet been announced.
