Nicolás Otamendi has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable career with Argentina, Softfootball can confirm.
The veteran defender’s final appearance came in Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, closing the curtain on one of the most decorated international careers of his generation.
Otamendi retires after making 139 appearances for La Albiceleste, having played a key role in the nation’s success over the past decade.
The 38-year-old, who recently joined River Plate, confirmed his decision in an emotional video shared on Instagram.
Otamendi said:
I dreamed from a very young age of wearing the Argentina shirt. It was the greatest privilege football gave me.
Throughout his international career, Otamendi helped Argentina win some of the game’s biggest honours and established himself as one of the country’s most influential defenders.
His retirement marks the end of an era for Argentina following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaving behind a legacy of commitment, leadership and success in the famous sky-blue and white shirt.
