Otamendi's Tirade Caught on Camera
Nicolas Otamendi accused Rodri of 'crying about referees' as the pair argued after the World Cup final. Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in a tense final in New Jersey, with Ferran Torres scoring the only goal in extra time.
The match saw Enzo Fernandez sent off for a reckless tackle, fueling animosity that continued after the final whistle. Argentinian players attempted to disrupt Spain's celebrations, leading to a brawl between Nahuel Molina and Rodri at full-time. Rodri then exchanged terse words with his former Manchester City team-mate Otamendi, captured on camera arguing enthusiastically in Spanish.
Translation of the Heated Exchange
Otamendi opened the dispute by accusing Rodri of complaining about officials before the match: 'Start talking less, you big baby; you were whining all week. You were whining all week long. You and Laporte. Both of you. You don't do that. You were whining to the referees, my friend.'
He referenced an interview Aymeric Laporte gave to Marca ahead of the match, where Laporte said he trusted match officials to handle Argentina's aggressive style. Rodri responded, telling Otamendi to 'have some respect.' But Otamendi, now playing for River Plate, continued: 'You don't need to do that, you know?'
Rodri Pleads His Case
Rodri argued that he had nothing to do with Laporte's comments, after which the pair were separated. Otamendi and Rodri played together 32 times during the 2019/20 season at Manchester City. Rodri ultimately had the last laugh, winning the Golden Ball for the tournament and lifting the World Cup trophy for Spain.
