BUENOS AIRES, July 24 -- Nicolas Otamendi announced his retirement from Argentina's national team on Thursday after an international career spanning more than 17 years.

The 38-year-old said on social media that he departed with his "head held high" after 139 caps, a World Cup title and two Copa America crowns.

"Today I have to write the hardest words of my entire career," he said in a social media post. "I dreamed from a very young age of wearing the Argentina national team jersey; it was the greatest privilege football ever gave me. I defended it with my soul, with pride, and with the responsibility of knowing what it means to millions of Argentines."

Otamendi made his last appearance for Argentina in its 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spai...