Centre-back Nicolás Otamendi, a key player in Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory, has officially joined River Plate, as confirmed by the club on Friday. The 38-year-old defender has signed an 18-month contract that will keep him at River until the end of 2027.

New Chapter for Otamendi

Otamendi completed the necessary paperwork before rejoining the national team, which is set to travel to the United States for World Cup preparations. In a video shared on River Plate's social media, he expressed his excitement about the move, stating, "Today I have the opportunity to be even happier, to wear these colours, which I haven't worn before, and to represent an institution like River." He added, "As a River supporter, it's a dream come true ... It's going to be special."

A Glorious Career

Having begun his professional career at Vélez Sarsfield, Otamendi has spent nearly 16 years playing abroad, featuring for clubs such as FC Porto, Atlético Mineiro, Valencia, Manchester City, and Benfica. Throughout his career, he has made over 450 appearances and amassed an impressive collection of 26 trophies, including the 2022 World Cup and multiple Copa América titles. His experience and leadership will be invaluable as he returns to Argentina to conclude his career at his beloved River Plate.

Otamendi's arrival at River Plate comes after he had already reached a verbal agreement with the club and bid farewell to Benfica. He will reunite with Germán Pezzella, a teammate from the Qatar World Cup, as well as fellow national team members Franco Armani and Marcos Acuña. River coach Eduardo Coudet praised Otamendi's abilities, calling him "a hugely important player, still performing at the highest level and a natural leader," and expressed hope for building something special with him on the team.