The 38-year-old centre-back completed his move after leaving Portuguese giants Benfica, bringing an end to his successful six-year spell in Lisbon. River Plate confirmed that Otamendi signed an 18-month contract that will keep him at the club until December 2027.
Speaking emotionally after sealing the move, Otamendi admitted that wearing the famous River Plate shirt means far more than just another transfer in his legendary career.
“The next thing to a dream. Very happy to get to the club of which I am a fan and love. I waited a long time for this possibility,” Otamendi said via Radio La Red.
The veteran defender returns to Argentine football after spending 16 years in Europe, where he enjoyed remarkable success with clubs including FC Porto, Valencia, Manchester City, and Benfica. During his time abroad, Otamendi won multiple domestic league titles and established himself as one of Argentina’s most experienced defenders.
Otamendi leaves Benfica as club captain and a fan favourite after making more than 280 appearances for the Portuguese side while winning several trophies.
His arrival is seen as a major boost for River Plate as the Argentine giants continue building a squad filled with experience and championship pedigree. Otamendi will also reunite with several of his Argentina national team teammates at the club, including Franco Armani, Gonzalo Montiel, Marcos Acuña, and Germán Pezzella.
The move has generated huge excitement among River Plate supporters, many of whom have waited years to see the lifelong fan finally wear the club’s colours professionally.
For Otamendi, the transfer represents more than football — it is the completion of a personal journey. After conquering Europe and helping Argentina win the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the experienced defender now returns home to play for the club closest to his heart.