'I leave with my head held high': Otamendi on his international retirement
New Delhi, July 24
Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi said he leaves international football with his 'head held high', insisting he gave everything every time he wore the national team jersey, as the veteran centre-back announced his retirement from the national team after more than 17 years of service.
The 38-year-old, who earned 139 caps and won the FIFA World Cup and two Copa America titles with Argentina, described writing his farewell message as the hardest moment of his career.
A stalwart of Argentina's golden generation, Otamendi represented his country at four FIFA World Cups, cementing his legacy as one of the nation's most accomplished defenders.
"Today I have to write the hardest words of my entire career. I dreamed from a very young age of wearing the Argentina national team jersey; it was the greatest privilege football ever gave me. I defended it with my soul, with pride, and with the responsibility of knowing what it means to millions of Argentines," Otamendi wrote on social media.
Otamendi made his final appearance for Argentina in Monday's 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey. Despite the disappointing result, he said he was proud of the team's effort.
"Fate willed that my final match would be a World Cup final. It wasn't the result we wanted, but I leave with my head held high knowing that this group tried until the very last second.
"I say goodbye with the peace of mind of having left everything out on the pitch. I never held back a single drop of effort, I never stopped believing, and I never stopped feeling that this jersey was the greatest honor of my life."
Otamendi recently returned to Argentina to join River Plate after ending a successful European career that included spells with Porto, Valencia, Manchester City and Benfica.
— IANS
Reader Comments
What a career! 139 caps, World Cup winner, Copa America titles – he's done it all. I'm glad he's retiring on his own terms, even after a tough World Cup final loss. Respect.
This hits different for us football fans in India ❤️ We dream of a day when our players can say the same about representing the country. Otamendi's passion shows what it means to wear the jersey. A true role model.
He was a warrior for Argentina. Sure, he had some shaky moments in big games, but you can't question his commitment. Leaving after a World Cup final is a classy way to go. 🏆
As an Indian football enthusiast, I admire how he gave everything for the team. Our sports culture can learn so much from this level of dedication. But honestly, I think he should have retired sooner to give younger players a chance. Just my two paise.
The emotion in his farewell letter is so heartfelt. You can tell he truly loved playing for his country. What a legacy – from Benfica to City to lifting the World Cup. Iconic! 🌟
This is what real patriotism looks like. Playing
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