Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is still uncertain, as the Inter Miami player is weighing his options. What Argentina knows for sure is that Nicolas Otamendi won’t be available for their first match in next year’s tournament because the veteran defender received a red card against Ecuador in the World Cup Qualifying finale.
In the 31st minute of the Matchday 18 game in Guayaquil, Otamendi was sent off for a foul on Enner Valencia, as he was the last defender for Argentina during an Ecuador counter-attack.
This red card means Otamendi must serve a one-match suspension in the next FIFA tournament. His absence will be felt in the upcoming World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Otamendi approaches the end of his national career
Like Messi, Otamendi is nearing the conclusion of his international career, with the 2026 World Cup potentially being his final appearance with La Albiceleste. He mentioned that the 3-0 win against Venezuela on Matchday 17 marked his last home game in a World Cup Qualifier—similar to Messi.
Nicolas Otamendi against Enner Valencia.
At 37, Otamendi remains in Lionel Scaloni’s plans for the national team. His ongoing strong performance with Portuguese club Benfica makes him a valuable player for Argentina’s recent successes.
As part of a generation that overcame criticism in their country, including Messi, Otamendi played a key role in Argentina’s victories at the 2021 and 2024 Copa Americas, the 2022 Finalissima, and the 2022 World Cup.
Otamendi has also been part of Argentina’s journey to the 2026 World Cup, helping them secure qualification for a chance at consecutive titles. However, it remains to be seen whether Scaloni will continue to call him up, given that the defender will miss at least the group stage opener.