While the football world is still waiting to see where Lionel Messi will play next season, one of his teammates in the Argentina national team has already made a definitive decision. Experienced centre-back Nicolas Otamendi has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will mark his retirement from the national team.
Nicolas Otamendi to retire from Argentina national team after World Cup
World champion and Argentine defensive stalwart Nicolas Otamendi, one of the most successful centre-backs who is currently plying his trade in the old continent with Benfica, spoke clearly about his future with La Albiceleste.
After the World Cup, a cycle with the national team comes to an end. It’s my last World Cup, from there I’ll be another fan
At 38 years of age, the defender understands that the end of his career with the national team should come at a high point, and what better scenario than a World Cup.
Beyond his international retirement, Otamendi‘s club future remains uncertain. Although he was linked with possible moves, the player avoided going into detail.
“I don’t want to add an extra word… I have a contract with Benfica and it ends in June,” he said, leaving open the possibility of defining his next step later on.
Even when faced with rumors linking him with Argentine soccer, specifically with River Plate, he responded with a brief but suggestive “we’ll see“.
Enzo Fernandez talks about Lionel Messi’s retirement from the Argentina national team
The Chelsea captain lamented Otamendi‘s announcement, highlighting his importance to the team as well as how much he helped him during his time at Benfica.
Obviously Ota means a lot to us, especially to me, he helped me a lot at Benfica, he is a great person, a great teammate and well, if he decided and made the decision, enjoy these last few months with him
Enzo Fernandez also spoke about the possible retirement of Leo Messi with the Argentina national team:
The last time I don’t know, I have no idea if it’s the last time or not. We always try to enjoy every moment with Leo to the fullest in the national team
For his part, Mac Allister echoed Enzo’s statements, pointing out that “it’s always nice to play with Leo“, while lamenting that the Finalissima did not take place due to conflicts in the Middle East.
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