Otamendi ‘to retire’ from international duty after World Cup, Benfica renewal blow | OneFootball

Benfica are on alert as Nicolás Otamendi’s contract renewal may have taken a significant blow after his decision on international duty.

A Bola reports that the Benfica captain plans to retire from international football after the World Cup, a choice that could weaken talks over a new deal. Freed from the need to stay at peak level for his country, he would weigh all opportunities available to him.

The prospect of a departure has gathered momentum after Otamendi addressed River Plate’s interest. The Argentine club want the 38-year-old defender, and he did not rule out a move, keeping the door open.

Stepping away from the national team gives him different priorities, and a Benfica extension could fall away. The captain might favour more lucrative offers over sporting projects, as he has up to now.

This season for Benfica, Nicolás Otamendi, valued at one million euros, has made 43 appearances, 24 in Liga Portugal Betclic, 14 in the Champions League, two in the Taça de Portugal, two in the Taça da Liga and one in the Supertaça. Across 3,809 minutes, he has scored three goals.

Source: Glorioso 1904