Argentina's defeat to Spain in the World Cup final was Nicolas Otamendi's final appearance for his country after announcing his retirement from international football.

Otamendi had already confirmed his decision in March, but he officially announced his departure from the international stage on Thursday, ending a 17-year playing career with Argentina which saw him amass 139 appearances in all competitions. 

He ranks fifth on the all-time list of caps, with only Javier Zanetti, Angel Di Maria (both 145), Javier Mascherano (147) and Lionel Messi (207) managing more for Argentina. 

The 38-year-old made his debut in a 3-1 win against Panama in May 2009 despite only playing 11 professional matches before being selected by Diego Maradona. 

Otamendi went on to win four major honours for Argentina, including two Copa America titles, the 2022 Finalissima and the World Cup in Qatar four years ago. 

The defender played every single minute of Argentina's World Cup success in 2022, but he was limited to one start from his seven appearances at this summer's tournament. 

He replaced Lisandro Martinez in the 44th minute of Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final, but was unable to help Lionel Scaloni's side to back-to-back World Cups. 

"I find myself writing the hardest words of my entire career," Otamendi wrote on Instagram.

"I bid farewell to the Argentina national team, but I am immensely proud to have represented my country.

"Whilst titles go down in history, the love for these colours lasts a lifetime. 

"Ever since I was a young boy, I have dreamt of wearing the Argentina national team shirt – it was the greatest privilege football has ever given me. 

"I defended it with all my heart, with pride, and responsibility, knowing what it means to millions of Argentines. Fate decreed 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 squad gave it their all right up to the very last second.

"I bid farewell with the peace of mind that I have given my all.

"I never held back a single ounce of effort, I never stopped believing, and I never stopped seeing this shirt as the greatest honour of my life.

"Thank you, Argentina. Thank you for letting me fulfil my dream of becoming a world champion and of wearing the most beautiful shirt in the world."

Otamendi's appearance in the final was his 21st at the World Cup, going level with Maradona. Only Messi (31) has made more for Argentina at the tournament. 

Another player who could join Otamendi in stepping away from the national team is Leandro Paredes, who revealed he is yet to confirm whether he will retire internationally. 

Paredes faced widespread criticism for his part in an altercation with Eric Garcia and Gavi following the full-time whistle at the World Cup final, and could be suspended by FIFA for his actions. 

"For many, this will be a time to decide whether to carry on [in the national team]," Paredes said. "It's been a wonderful journey.

"It's going to be very difficult to maintain this standard and keep the group functioning in this way, and there will be many factors to weigh up.

"We need to take our time when making decisions. I still don't know if I'm ready to carry on. It's a process that needs to be taken in and thought through.

"A lot has been said, but Spain were better than us in the final. They are the deserved World Cup winners.

"All that's left for us is to enjoy what we've achieved over these eight years. It's a pleasure to be part of this. It's incredible."