Argentina lost the 2026 FIFA World Cup final to Spain 1-0. Nicolás Otamendi retired from the national team four days after the final, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino responded with an emotional tribute following the legendary defender’s announcement.
In a post on his Instagram account, the FIFA President paid homage to Otamendi’s distinguished international career. “Congratulations to Nicolás Otamendi on an extraordinary international career. Winner of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, runner-up in 2026, and one of the most capped footballers in Argentine history with 139 appearances. Your leadership and determination have helped create this golden chapter for the national team,” Infantino wrote.
He added, “Thank you for the unforgettable moments you have given to football fans around the world, and for representing the Argentine national team with such great pride. I wish you all the best for the next chapter of your life.”
Otamendi made his Argentina debut against Panama on May 20, 2009, and went on to represent the Albiceleste at four World Cups. In his international career, he won one World Cup, two Copa Américas, and the Finalísima.
Despite retiring from international football, Otamendi has not yet hung up his boots at club level. The defender, affectionately known as El General, recently signed a contract with River Plate through December 31, 2027, and made his debut for the Buenos Aires club on Saturday.
In an emotional retirement announcement shared on Instagram alongside a video of his career highlights, Otamendi wrote, “Today I must write the most difficult words of my career. Since I was a child, I dreamed of wearing the Argentina jersey, and this was the greatest gift football has ever given me. With everything I had, I protected this jersey and honoured the feelings of millions of Argentines.”
He continued, “Fate determined that my final match would be a World Cup final. The result did not go in our favor, but I leave with my head held high, consoled by the knowledge that this team gave absolutely everything until the very last second.”
To his younger teammates, he said, “To the rest of the squad, I say from the bottom of my heart: never lose faith. There will be obstacles that may seem impossible to overcome, but this jersey always rewards those who uphold its dignity with humility, sacrifice, and love. Keep your heads up, keep fighting, and never let a defeat take away your hope.”
Expressing gratitude to the supporters, Otamendi said, “Thank you to the Argentine fans. Thank you for your unconditional love, for every flag, for every song, and for standing by us in good times and bad. During the national anthem, you made us understand that we are not merely eleven players — we are millions of people defending the same dream.”
He concluded by thanking his family: “Thank you to my family for being my strength in every battle. I leave the national team with immense pride at having represented my country. Because trophies remain in the pages of history, but the love for these colors lives on forever. Thank you, Argentina. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to fulfill my dream of becoming world champion and wearing the most beautiful jersey in the world. Farewell, national team.”
