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Nicolas Otamendi retires from Argentina after 2026 World Cup final defeat

Veteran centre‑back Nicolas Otamendi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team following the 2026 World Cup final loss to Spain. The 38‑year‑old defender, who earned 139 caps over a 17‑year international career, was a key figure in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph and two Copa América titles.

Otamendi posted an emotional farewell letter on Instagram, writing, “I dreamed of wearing the Argentine jersey as a child; defending it was the greatest honour of my life.” He reflected that his final match “was a World Cup final” and said he leaves “with his head held high” after the 1‑0 defeat.

Having recently joined River Plate after a 16‑year spell in Europe, Otamendi thanked the fans, his family and the nation, emphasizing that “millions of Argentines felt the dream with us”. His retirement marks the end of a generation that dominated Argentine football for more than a decade.

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