Nicolás Otamendi announces international retirement after Argentina’s World Cup final loss to Spain | OneFootball

Nicolás Otamendi has retired from international football a few days after Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain, drawing a line under 17 years and 139 caps.

The 38-year-old announced his decision on Thursday in a long social media letter, and said he had given everything to the Albiceleste. His last appearance came in the 2026 final, Spain winning 1-0 after extra time.

He reflected on a childhood dream to wear the national shirt, calling it football’s greatest privilege and something he defended with pride and a sense of responsibility to millions of Argentines.

The result was not what the team wanted, and he leaves with his head held high, convinced the group fought until the very last second.

There was a pointed tribute to supporters, praising their unconditional love and every flag and song, and evoking the anthem as a moment when it felt like millions were on the pitch.

A world champion in 2022, he signed off by noting that titles belong to history while love for these colours lasts a lifetime, thanking Argentina and bidding the national team farewell.

Source: L'Équipe