Nicolas Otamendi ends international career after 17 years with Argentina

Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing a 17-year spell with the national team to a close. The 38-year-old finished his international career having made 139 appearances and after playing in Argentina’s 1-0 World Cup final defeat to Spain.

Otamendi leaves the national side with an extensive trophy haul that includes the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa America triumphs. Across nearly two decades he featured regularly for Argentina, becoming one of the squad’s most-capped defenders. His retirement was accompanied by an emotional farewell to the country he represented at the highest level.

Throughout his international tenure Otamendi accumulated 139 caps while serving as a central figure in Argentina’s defence. The 38-year-old’s presence was a constant through multiple tournament cycles, and his longevity extended his career to 17 years on the international stage. Team and tournament records reflect his long service to Argentina’s national team.

A highlight of Otamendi’s time in blue and white came with the 2022 FIFA World Cup victory, a landmark achievement for the player and the nation. He also helped Argentina secure two Copa America titles during his international run. Those trophies form a significant portion of the honours he collected before stepping away from international play.

Otamendi’s final appearance for Argentina came in a World Cup final in which the team fell 1-0 to Spain. That match closed his international ledger and provided the setting for his farewell. He publicly thanked Argentina in a highly charged emotional moment, saying he leaves "with my head held high".

The announcement marks the end of a 17-year career with Argentina for the 38-year-old defender, who departs having made 139 appearances and won multiple major honours. His retirement removes a veteran presence from the national squad and concludes a lengthy chapter in his international career.