Argentina’s national team coach Lionel Scaloni has announced his preliminary squad for the upcoming World Cup, featuring a 55-man list that includes HSV vice-captain Nicolás Capaldo. Alongside global superstars like Lionel Messi (38) and Bundesliga representatives such as Bayer Leverkusen’s Exequiel Palacios (27) and Equi Fernández (23), Capaldo earned a surprise call-up. Notably absent from the list are players like Paulo Dybala (32, AS Roma) and Taty Castellanos (27, West Ham), the latter being the highest-valued Argentine omitted with a market value of €28 million. For Capaldo, this recognition highlights his impressive development and consistent performances in Hamburg.
Signed last summer from Red Bull Salzburg for €2.1 million, Capaldo quickly became a cornerstone of coach Merlin Polzin’s setup, described as a “very important player” in the team’s structure. Throughout much of the season, he stepped in as captain for Yussuf Poulsen (31). Initially deployed in midfield, injuries forced him to shift into central defense, where he thrived. His presence in HSV’s starting lineup has become indispensable, symbolizing the club’s resurgence this year, which lifted the promoted side to a secure mid-table position (10th in the Bundesliga annual table).
Former professional Rodolfo Cardoso told *Bild*: “The new position has done Capaldo good; he performs very strongly there. In the center, he covers a lot of ground. Now he shows better game intelligence and decides when to join the attack. When space opens up, he is extremely dynamic. Capaldo pushes forward with pace, causing trouble for opponents.” Cardoso, now coach of HSV’s women’s team, has followed Capaldo since his move. “Capaldo is incredibly fast, strong in duels, and never tires. Despite not being very tall, his good jumping ability allows him to hold his own in the air.”
Aside from injuries and a suspension, Capaldo spent only one match on the bench. In 26 appearances totaling 2,040 minutes, he contributed one goal and two assists. After a market value drop following his transfer, he has since climbed back to €5 million in the March update. A further increase may come on May 27, as Transfermarkt users on average advocate for a valuation of around €8 million.
HSV fan “HectorBarbossa” commented: “Capaldo is so important for the team. He fully embraces the captain’s role and thrives as a center-back. He drives our game—his fighting spirit, numerous tackles, and quick surges after winning the ball are vital. Nobody pushes the ball forward like him. Alongside Vieira and Vuskovic, he’s one of our key players.” Scaloni’s inclusion is another strong argument for a potential upgrade. So far, Capaldo has only worn the Albiceleste jersey for the U23 side.
Despite the slim chances of making the star-studded final Argentine squad, Capaldo’s World Cup dream remains alive. “Everyone dreams of playing in a World Cup. I experienced the last tournament with my family when Argentina won,” he said.
