Even thousands of miles away, ex-Benfica star remembers Otamendi’s birthday | OneFootball

The day was special for Nicolás Otamendi, and Ángel Di María made sure to mark it, even from a distance. The former Benfica winger took to social media to congratulate the Argentine defender on his 38th birthday, sharing an image of the two wearing the Eagles' jersey, captured during the Club World Cup.

“Happy birthday, general. Have a good one, friend,” wrote Di María, currently at Rosario Central, in a post that was quickly reposted by Otamendi. The message generated several reactions and joined the many expressions of affection that the Benfica captain received throughout the day.

The date gains even greater sporting significance, as this Friday, against Santa Clara, Otamendi could enter a very exclusive group in Benfica's history. The Argentine international will become the sixth player to play for the Eagles at 38 years old, a rare record at the Club.

In that group, there is only one outfield player: António Veloso, a former full-back, who played his last match for the Reds at 38 years, four months, and 20 days. To match that milestone, Otamendi will still need to extend his contract with Benfica - which filled the coffers with millions from the Champions League.

The list is led by Michel Preud’homme, who ended his career with the Eagles at over 40 years old. Manuel Bento, Paulo Lopes, and Júlio César complete the group of names who, like Otamendi, extended their competitive presence at an advanced age in service of the Club of Light.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.