Nicolas Otamendi Retires from Argentina National Team

Nicolas Otamendi has officially retired from international football after a distinguished 17-year career with the Argentina National Football Team, following their 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final. The 38-year-old defender made a substitute appearance in the match and had previously announced his intention to retire after this tournament.

Otamendi ranks fifth in all-time caps for Argentina, with 139 appearances, surpassed only by Lionel Messi, Javier Mascherano, Angel Di Maria, and Javier Zanetti. His international career began in 2009 under manager Diego Maradona.

Throughout his tenure, he won two Copa America titles, the 2022 Finalissima, and played every minute of Argentina's successful campaign in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. In an Instagram post, Otamendi expressed his gratitude to the nation for allowing him to fulfill his dream of representing Argentina and becoming a world champion, stating he leaves with peace of mind knowing he gave his all.