Nicolas Otamendi #19 of Argentina runs with the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Jordan and Argentina at Dallas Stadium on June 27, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo: AFP)

Nicolas Otamendi announced his retirement from Argentina's national team on Thursday after an international career spanning more than 17 years.

The 38-year-old said on social media that he departed with his "head held high" after 139 caps, a World Cup title and two Copa America crowns.

"Today I have to write the hardest words of my entire career," he said in a social media post. "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 made his last appearance for Argentina in its 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final in New Jersey on Sunday.

Despite the disappointing end to his career, Otamendi said he would only take positive memories from his time with the Albiceleste.

"Fate willed that my final match would be a World Cup final," he said. "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, whose club career has included spells at Porto, Manchester City, Valencia and Benfica, will continue playing with River Plate in Argentina's top flight.