Otamendi will fulfill his dream and sign with River Plate after the World Cup.

Nicolás Otamendi is about to write the final chapter of his career in Portugal and prepare for a triumphant return to his homeland. According to Argentine sources, the experienced centre-back, whose contract with Benfica expires at the end of this season, has a deal nearly finalized to join River Plate shortly after the 2022 World Cup. This transfer could mark the end of a six-year association with the Eagles and the fulfillment of Otamendi’s dream to play for the club of his heart.

The news, confirmed by journalist Juan Pablo Marron during a broadcast on ESPN, reveals that the Benfica captain will not renew his contract with the Reds. After the international tournament taking place in the summer, Otamendi will leave Portugal to embrace a new challenge in the Argentine Superliga, thus returning to his homeland to wear the River Plate jersey.

José Mourinho, coach of AS Roma, also commented on the player’s future, emphasizing that the decision lies with Otamendi himself. The Portuguese manager expressed respect for the centre-back’s choice, who is expected to say goodbye to Benfica fans on the final matchday of the league, in a game against Estoril that promises to be emotional.

Since arriving at Benfica in 2016, Otamendi has become an indispensable figure in the club’s defense, amassing six seasons of significant impact. During this period, he won one national championship title, one Allianz Cup, and one Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira, leaving a legacy that will be hard to forget for the fans.

Otamendi’s departure represents a significant loss for Benfica, which will not only lose a leader on the field but also a player with vast international experience. On the other hand, River Plate strengthens its squad with one of the most respected center-backs in world football, who arrives eager to shine in the Argentine league and win new trophies.

Otamendi’s farewell to European football is imminent, and the eyes of Portugal and Argentina will be focused on this transfer that could shake up the market and the balance of power on both continents. The 2022 World Cup will be the last stage where Otamendi will defend Benfica’s colors before embracing the dream of playing for the club he has always supported – a story of passion, talent, and commitment that is about to reach its end in Portuguese lands.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.