Argentina has lost one of its icons. Nicolás Otamendi, 38, officially retired from the national team this Thursday, four days after the 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final in East Rutherford. The last result for the squad -a 1-0 defeat to Spain on July 19, 2026- capped a cycle that included historic titles but ended in bittersweet fashion for the defender.

What did Otamendi say in his farewell?

In a video and letter shared on his social media, Otamendi explained his decision with quiet emotion. “I leave with the peace of having given everything. I never held back, never stopped believing, and never stopped feeling this shirt as the greatest honor of my life,” the former center-back wrote. The message resonated with fans who recalled his leadership in key moments, such as the 3-0 win over Italy in the 2022 Finalissima or the 2024 Copa América title.

Career: from River Plate to glory with Argentina

Otamendi made his international debut in 2009, called up by Diego Maradona, and went on to earn 139 caps. His participation in four World Cups -South Africa 2010, Russia 2018, Qatar 2022 and North America 2026- made him one of the most recognizable defenders in recent Argentina history. He won the 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles (2021 and 2024) and the 2022 Finalissima, but the 2026 runners-up finish left a void in his trophy cabinet.

After retiring, Otamendi has already joined River Plate’s training sessions, the club he has supported since childhood. His move to the Millonarios comes after 15 years in Europe, where he played for Porto, Valencia, Manchester City and Benfica, plus a brief stint at Atlético Mineiro in 2014. With 27 titles to his name, his experience will be crucial in the squad led by Coudet.

Why did he retire after the 2026 World Cup?

The defender had hinted in 2025 that the North America 2026 World Cup would be his last tournament with the national team. The 1-0 defeat to Spain in the July 19, 2026 final sealed that announcement. Otamendi made it clear he had fulfilled his cycle: “The 2026 World Cup had already been marked by me as my last international tournament,” he stated in his message.

What will Otamendi bring to River Plate?

With nearly two decades as a professional, Otamendi arrives at River Plate with an unquestionable winning profile. His ability to succeed in five countries -Portugal, Spain, England, Italy and Brazil- gives him a special aura. But beyond the trophies, his status as a lifelong River fan excites the supporters. “Having a man on the pitch who represents them is always a plus,” noted a teammate. His exact role under Coudet is still to be defined, but his leadership will be a key asset for a team in transition.

Argentina closes an era with Otamendi. His legacy includes goals in decisive moments, such as his strike in the 2022 World Cup semifinal against Croatia, and defensive solidity that made him a reference. Now, his next challenge will be helping River Plate maintain its dominance in Argentine football.