Argentina’s national team coach Lionel Scaloni has announced his provisional 55-man squad for the upcoming World Cup, featuring superstars like Lionel Messi (38) alongside Bundesliga talents including Bayer Leverkusen duo Exequiel Palacios (27) and Equi Fernández (23), as well as a surprise inclusion: HSV defender Nicolás Capaldo. The list notably omits Paulo Dybala (32, AS Roma) and Taty Castellanos (27, West Ham), the latter being the highest-valued Argentine (€28 million) left out by Scaloni. For Capaldo, this recognition underscores his strong development and impressive performances in Hamburg.
Capaldo was signed from Red Bull Salzburg last summer for €2.1 million and immediately became a key figure under coach Merlin Polzin, who described him as a “very important player” in the squad. Throughout the season, the 27-year-old deputized as captain for Yussuf Poulsen (31) across long stretches. Initially deployed in midfield, Capaldo was quickly shifted to central defense due to injuries and truly flourished there. He is now an indispensable starter for HSV, symbolizing the club’s resurgence that has lifted the promoted side into a secure mid-table position in the Bundesliga.
“Capaldo has thrived in his new position—he reads the game much better now. He used to cover a lot of ground in midfield, but now he shows more composure on the ball and decides when to join the attack. When space opens up, he’s very dynamic and dangerous with his pace,” former professional Rodolfo Cardoso told *Bild* about Capaldo’s transformation. The HSV women’s team coach has closely followed Capaldo’s career since his move. “Capaldo is incredibly fast, strong in tackles, and never tires. Despite not being tall, his good jumping ability allows him to dominate in the air as well.”
Barring injuries and a suspension, Capaldo has spent only one match on the bench. In 26 appearances totaling 2,040 minutes, he has scored one goal and provided two assists. His market value recovered to €5 million after a dip following his transfer, and the next update on May 27 could see another rise. On Transfermarkt’s market value analysis, users have proposed an average increase to around €8 million.
“Capaldo is so important for the team. He fully embraces the captain’s role and his position as center-back. He drives our play with his fighting spirit, numerous tackles, and speedy runs after recovering possession. No one else pushes the ball forward like him. Alongside Vieira and Vuskovic, he’s one of our most vital players,” wrote HSV fan “HectorBarbossa.” Scaloni’s call-up further strengthens arguments for a value upgrade. So far, Capaldo has only worn Argentina’s jersey at the U23 level.
Although Capaldo faces only a slim chance of making the star-studded final squad, his World Cup dream remains alive. “Everyone dreams of playing in a World Cup. I watched the last tournament with my family when Argentina won,” he said.
