19 Nicolás Otamendi
Nicolás Otamendi, 1988-02-12, Defender for Argentina, plays for Benfica. 115 international caps, 5 goals. Part of Argentina's 2026 World Cup Group J squad.
Biography
Benfica centre-back and a member of Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad. Currently plying his trade at Benfica, a dependable defender, Nicolás Otamendi combines positional intelligence with tenacious tackling, forming a key part of Argentina's backline. Has earned 115 international caps, scoring 5 goals, making him one of the most senior figures in the squad. Born in 1988, the 38-year-old veteran continues to compete at the highest level, bringing invaluable experience and professionalism. Set to represent Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup — a historic moment for the nation.
Career Timeline
In 2024, Otamendi won a second consecutive Copa América title.
After consecutive runner-up finishes in the latter tournament, Otamendi won the 2021 Copa América on his fourth attempt, and would then lift the 2022 World Cup the following year, playing every single minute of Argentina's campaign.
In 2020, Otamendi returned to Portugal with Benfica, where he won another league title and the Portuguese League Cup.
In 2015, he moved to Manchester City and won back-to-back Premier League titles in 2018 and 2019, as well as four League Cups and an FA Cup.
Otamendi played for Vélez Sarsfield and Porto in his early career, winning eight major titles with Porto, including three Primeira Liga championships and the 2011 Europa League.
An Argentina international since 2009, Otamendi has made 130 appearances and represented his country at three FIFA World Cups and five Copas América.