Just one day before assisting Argentina in a 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, Nicolás Otamendi shared a glimpse of his elite training session.

In an Instagram post on Friday, July 11, Otamendi showcased the powerful strength-training session that helped him stay resilient, strong, and match-ready throughout the season.

The carousel of images showed Otamendi engaging in a variety of exercises on and off the field. His strength training included bodyweight triceps dips on a bench, half-kneeling single-arm cable pulldowns, and intense running and practice on the field.

He captioned the Instagram post “Resilience 🦾,” translated from its original text in Spanish.

As Otamendi and his team prepare for Argentina’s 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final against England, the veteran defender is leaving no stone unturned in their training.

The semi-final, scheduled for July 15, is a crucial match for the team. A victory will ensure their place in the World Cup finals on July 19.

For Otamendi, however, strength training is only a part of his game plan. Alongside a demanding training routine, he fuels his performance with a strict diet.

What does Nicolás Otamendi eat to stay at the top of his game?

Nicolás Otamendi follows a strict diet, especially pre-matches. His diet is designed keeping in mind his performance, recovery, and nutritional needs.

Daily meals are simple, focusing primarily on nutrient-dense plates that are rich in protein. Per Portuguese publication Record, Otamendi sticks to a simple meal of chicken, salads, and fish.

This forms the basic foundation of his healthy nutritional plan. He also revealed how he avoids alcohol almost entirely, allowing himself to indulge in moderate amounts only during celebrations.

He works alongside Giuliano Poser, an Italian sports nutritionist, curating custom meal plans that enhance his recovery and performance.

"Behind the scenes, there's a whole preparation in terms of food. I take great care of myself," Otamendi said. "I eat chicken, rice, and salads practically every day. After games, I treat myself, but otherwise I eat practically the same thing. It's a preparation and an effort that you have to make to be in good shape."

Furthermore, Otamendi pays immense attention to hydration, ensuring that he drinks adequate water throughout the day and during matches.

What do you think of the Argentine’s fitness routine and diet? Do you think he has what it takes to lead the team to a final victory?

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Written by

Avantika Das

Edited by

Yash Kotak