Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi has announced his retirement from the national team, ending his 17-year international career. The 38-year-old leaves as one of Argentina’s most successful defenders, winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa America titles. His last appearance was in the World Cup final in the United States, where Argentina lost 0-1 to Spain.Otamendi made 139 appearances for Argentina and was a key figure in the team’s success over the years. After the final, he shared a touching message on Instagram, thanking his country for giving him the chance to dream of his biggest dream.“Today I have to write the most difficult sentence of my career. As fate would have it, my last game was the World Cup final. It wasn’t the result we wanted, but I’ll leave with my head held high because I know this team was committed until the last second. Thanks to Argentina for allowing me to realize my dream of becoming a world champion. he wrote. Argentina’s hopes of retaining the World Cup title were dashed when they narrowly lost to Spain in overtime in the final. The team showed great fighting spirit throughout the tournament, coming back from two goals down to beat Egypt in the round of 32, before pulling off another dramatic comeback against England in the semi-finals. However, Spain proved their superiority in the final, ending Argentina’s reign as world champions.
Decorating career is over
Otamendi also recently returned to Argentina to join River Plate after a successful club career in Europe. During his time abroad, he played for Porto, Valencia, Manchester City and Benfica, winning many major honors.Otamendi represented Argentina at four World Cups and retired as one of the country’s most experienced and accomplished defenders, leaving behind a legacy of stability, leadership and success built on the highest levels.
