According to Portuguese newspaper Record on July 30, Argentine center-back Nicolás Otamendi has admitted that he is very keen to return to his homeland and play for River Plate, but considering the very unstable situation in Argentina, he basically ruled out the possibility of making it happen.
Otamendi admitted that he “longs to” play for River Plate, saying: “I really want to play for River Plate, because I’m a River Plate fan. My compatriots in Argentina have always been great to me, but I also have to consider my family. I’ve been in Europe for many years, the only thing I consider is my children, to ensure their safety. Given the current situation in Argentina, returning home has become very complicated. I have one year left on my contract with Sporting Lisbon and I am satisfied with the club’s current situation.”
Otamendi also expressed understanding for Di María’s decision not to return to Rosario to play, but did not shy away from his yearning to return to his roots. He said: “The situation is very complicated, as a player, you always have to put your family and children’s safety first. Argentina is going through a difficult period at the moment, when I was single, I wouldn’t have had too many concerns, but after getting married and starting a family, if there are threats to safety, I have to carefully weigh the pros and cons.”
Otamendi also revealed details of his refusal to reunite with Marcelo Gallardo at River Plate: “Marcelo wanted me back at River Plate, I told him I had already spoken with the chairman and explained the reasons for my polite refusal. I still have a contract with Benfica, and my family is my top priority at this stage.”
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