Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi announces retirement from international football

Veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi has retired from international football, concluding a 17-year career that saw him win the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa America titles. The 38-year-old announced his decision on Instagram, calling it the most difficult words of his career.

Otamendi's final game for Argentina was the World Cup final, where the team suffered a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain. Despite the loss, he expressed pride in the team's effort, stating he was leaving with his head held high and having fulfilled his dream of becoming a world champion.

The defender made 139 appearances for Argentina and was a key part of the squad that reached the final in the United States. He recently returned to his homeland to play for River Plate after a successful career in Europe, with previous clubs including Porto, Valencia, Manchester City, and Benfica. Otamendi represented Argentina in four World Cups, solidifying his status as one of the nation's most accomplished defenders.

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Today I have to write the most difficult words of my career. As fate would have it, my last match was a World Cup final. It wasn't the result we wanted, but I'm leaving with my head held high, knowing that this team gave it their all right up to the very last second. Thank you, Argentina, for allowing me to fulfil the dream of becoming a world champion.