Otamendi ends international career after emotional final training
Nicolás Otamendi, 38‑year‑old central defender, completed his final training with the Argentina national team this Sunday, marking the end of his international career that had already been announced after the 2026 World Cup, and posted an emotional message on social media.
Career and farewell on social media
During his spell in Europe, Otamendi played as a central defender for FC Porto and later for Benfica, both clubs from Portugal. His presence was considered essential for the defensive solidity of the Portuguese‑Spanish teams.
The 38‑year‑old player had already announced that he would end his international career after the 2026 World Cup. The decision was confirmed in a press conference before the preparation for the friendly against Benin.
“Today was my last training session in the shirt of the Argentina national team. And, although I tried to live it as just another day, I knew from the first moment that nothing would ever be the same again,” Otamendi wrote in his Instagram post. The message was accompanied by a photo alongside his teammates and the coaching staff on the field at Ezeiza. The post, made on Instagram, quickly received thousands of likes and messages of support from colleagues and fans.
“As I looked at the pitch, all the memories returned: the first steps, the hardships, the joys, the tears, the victories and also the defeats that taught me to get up again and again. Every corner seemed to hold a story, every glance brought a farewell and every moment reminded me of all that it meant to wear these colours,” the defender added. He also highlighted that every corner of the stadium held stories that marked his journey over the years.
“I leave with an emotion that is hard to explain, because representing my country was far more than a fulfilled dream: it was one of the greatest honours of my life,” Otamendi said. The gratitude also included a mention of the coaches who accompanied him throughout his time with the Albiceleste.
Final match against Benin
In the closing, Otamendi addressed Lionel Messi, calling him “the best player of all time” and wishing him a “very special day” before the final match. The Albiceleste farewell match will be against Benin, scheduled for October 6 at 20:00 at the Estadio Monumental de Núñez. Both players will take the field as starters, symbolising the end of an era for the national team.
With 139 caps for the national team, Ota leaves a legacy of leadership and experience. The AFA organized a special programme for Messi farewell, with shows starting at 17:30, and the broadcast will be carried out by TyC Sports, Telefe and streaming platforms, as announced by Rede Bola na Rede. The coverage will also be available on the streaming platforms TyC Sports Play, Mi Telefe, Flow, DGO and Telecentro Play, expanding access for the public.
The account of Lionel Messi also shared the squad photo at the end of the training, reinforcing the bond between the two captains. The post by Messi received thousands of reactions, underscoring the magnitude of the collective farewell.