Di María and Otamendi join Messi in temporarily retiring from international football

Lionel Scaloni, interim coach, faces more issues with the national team. Di Maria and Otamendi have requested temporary leave from the 'Albiceleste'. Leo Messi has also stated he will not play for Argentina again in 2018. 

Di Maria and Otamendi, both at the age of 30, still have a career ahead of them with the national team and are also important at their current clubs (PSG and Manchester City, respectively). 

Following a bad World Cup in Russia, debates are occurring in Argentina. Without a manager, with a new generation seemingly incoming, with the doubts of Leo Messi... In 2019 there could be a Copa America which will illustrate Argentina's future. 

Di Maria and Otamendi have both been key players in the last five years with the national team. Particularly the winger, who has played 97 matches with the 'Albiceleste', while Otamendi has played 58. 

Argentina face a process of internal restructuring without many of its biggest talents.