Nicolás Otamendi, the Argentine defender who was signed by Benfica in January 2019, has been one of the most prominent figures in the Portuguese club's defense this season. However, his performance has not been as expected due to injuries he sustained during the course of the season.
Injuries have plagued Otamendi throughout his career, with numerous setbacks that have limited his playing time. The latest injury update is that he is currently recovering from a hamstring strain, which he sustained while playing for Argentina against Saudi Arabia in September 2020. The injury forced him to miss several games, including the Copa America and the UEFA Champions League group stage matches.
Despite the setback, Otamendi remains a key player for Benfica, as he provides the team with both defensive solidity and leadership. He has played a crucial role in helping the team maintain their position in the top tier of Portuguese football, despite the absence of some key players such as Bruno Fernandes and Joao Cancelo.
However, the injury could affect Otamendi's chances of being selected for the Argentina national team for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. If he misses too many games, it may be difficult for him to regain his place in the squad. Nonetheless, he remains a valuable asset for Benfica, and the team will hope that he can recover quickly and return to full fitness before the end of the season.