In a significant move for both the player and the club, veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi, a cornerstone of Argentina's World Cup-winning defense, is set to join River Plate following his participation in the upcoming World Cup. The renowned Argentine club confirmed on Friday that they have secured the services of the 38-year-old defender, who recently concluded his contract with Portugal's Benfica, where he earned legendary status and served as captain.
Otamendi has signed a contract with River Plate that extends until 2027, and he will reunite with the squad managed by Eduardo Coudet after competing with Argentina in the World Cup, which is set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19. This transfer marks Otamendi's return to Argentine football after spending 16 years in various European clubs, including Porto, Valencia, Manchester City, Benfica, and Atlético Mineiro in Brazil. Although he emerged from the youth ranks of Vélez Sarsfield, the player has consistently expressed his desire to conclude his career at River Plate, a club he passionately supports.
During the 2022 World Cup, Otamendi formed a formidable central defensive partnership with Cristian Romero, contributing significantly to Argentina's triumph. It appears that this defensive duo will continue to feature in the upcoming World Cup, where the Albiceleste will kick off their campaign against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City. Group J also includes Austria and Jordan, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting tournament.
As reported by houstonchronicle.com.
