Otamendi Announces Retirement from Argentina After 2026 World Cup

Nicolás Otamendi has declared that the 2026 World Cup will be his last tournament with Argentina, as he shared in an interview with Telefe. The 37-year-old defender, who was sent off in the 1-0 defeat to Ecuador in the final South American qualifier, plans to retire from international football after the Albiceleste’s campaign in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

“The World Cup will be my last competition with the national team. Every time I wore this shirt, I tried to give my best,” said the captain, reflecting on his early career sacrifices and family support.

Otamendi highlighted the victory in Qatar 2022 as the peak of his career, describing the celebrations as unforgettable. He noted that Argentina is motivated as they head into 2026: “We want to compete with humility, knowing it’s difficult but not impossible.”

Currently playing for Benfica, Otamendi has not made any plans for after the World Cup. He mentioned that he has never discussed a return to River Plate with Marcelo Gallardo, despite rumors. “I have one year left on my contract and then I’ll see what happens,” he said.

Having over a decade with the national team and a World Cup winner’s medal, Otamendi is set to face his final challenge before concluding a notable chapter with Argentina.