Nicolás Otamendi retires from Argentina after World Cup final loss

Veteran centre‑back Nicolás Otamendi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on Thursday, four days after the Albiceleste fell 1‑0 to Spain in extra time in the 2026 World Cup final in East Rutherford, USA. In an Instagram video and open letter he said he was leaving “with my head held high” after 17 years, 139 caps, four World Cups and a trophy haul that includes the 2022 World Cup, Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024 and the 2022 Finalissima. He thanked fans for their “unconditional love” and pledged he had given “every drop of effort” for the shirt.

Otamendi, 38, had recently joined River Plate after a 15‑year spell in Europe with clubs such as Porto, Valencia, Manchester City and Benfica. While he will continue his club career, he confirmed that his international career is over.

In parallel, the Universidad Nacional del Delta named Otamendi a “Personalidad Destacada del Delta” in recognition of his sporting achievements and the values he represents for the region.