Otamendi: To me, those abuses are like gasoline, which only make me work harder

June 26th Otamendi equalized the team in the Club World Cup in Benfica's 2-2 draw with Boca Youth, resulting in Boca Youth being eliminated. His celebration sparked controversy, and he talked about the hostility he was subject to in an interview with RadioLaRed.

Otamendi's reaction attracted widespread attention, and the player who publicly stated that he was a River Plate fan said: "Some people want me to retire, but I will continue to move forward. To me, those insults are like gasoline and will only make me work harder." Regarding the attacks received in the game, Otamendi said lightly that this is only part of football and does not want to cause more conflicts: "I hope Boca fans don't think it is an insult."

Otamendi admitted that the results of the group qualifying brought a lot of responses, Benfica advanced to the quarterfinals with Bayern, while Boca was eliminated, which caused criticism and disappointment among Boca fans. For the moment, the Argentine defender has turned his attention to the next challenge: the game against Chelsea.

Otamendi highly praised the quality of the game and the atmosphere created by Argentina and Brazilian fans in the United States: "The game is very intense, and places with Argentina fans are always packed, and Brazilian fans have also brought a lot of people, which makes the game even more exciting. Enzo knows me, and he knows that no matter what jersey I wear, I will do my best."

Regarding his current situation and future, Otamendi made it clear that he will not renew his contract with Benfica after the end of the Club World Cup, but he did not disclose where he will go next: "Now my goal is to continue to compete and stay within the perspective of the national team." Although the Saudi club made an invitation, Otamendi rejected these proposals and he prioritized playing in a high-level league.

There were previously rumors in the transfer market that Otamendi might return to Argentina to join River Plate, a team he publicly supports. However, he did not deny this possibility, but said that it was uncertain: "I received a offer from Saudi Arabia, but all refused. I just want to focus on the Club World Cup now and watch it later."

Otamendi also expressed his opinion on Di Maria's return to Argentina: "Dimaria returned to his home. Although he had been in Europe for many years, he was not born with a golden spoon in his mouth. He knew how to adapt. Although he left when he was young, he knew Argentine football and he would enjoy the game and compete to the end."