Blow for HSV: their ‘X-factor’ faces a lengthy spell out | OneFootball

HSV’s concern grows over a key player. Nicolas Capaldo will also miss the upcoming clash against Borussia Dortmund!

Looking at recent developments, a longer absence does not seem out of the question. At the beginning of the week, coach Merlin Polzin had cautiously expressed hope, but that quickly faded.

“After the initially very positive progress, he started to feel something again,” Polzin explained on Thursday (via Hamburger Abendblatt). The consequence: “He is definitely out for the game against Dortmund.” At least there is a small glimmer of hope: “We hope he can return around the international break.” Until then, further examinations are scheduled, as the Argentine has been struggling with an abdominal muscle injury for two weeks, which he sustained in the match against RB Leipzig.

For HSV, his absence weighs heavier than it might seem at first glance. In addition to his importance in the defensive back three, Capaldo is also a crucial driving force in the attack. Polzin aptly describes his role: “We see the qualities of each player as a kind of X-factor. For Capaldo, it’s certainly his energy and unpredictability.” These are precisely the qualities Hamburg is visibly missing right now.

Photo: Getty Images

HSV a class weaker without Capaldo

The recent performances against Bayer Leverkusen, VfL Wolfsburg, and 1. FC Köln revealed clear problems in attack. Without Capaldo’s dynamic runs in behind, there is a lack of penetration and surprise moments. The team is trying to close the gap collectively, but Polzin makes it clear: “It’s not about one player fulfilling what makes another special, but about bringing out each individual’s strengths on the pitch.”

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In addition to Capaldo, Yussuf Poulsen, Bakery Jatta, and Alexander Rössing Lelesiit are also missing, which further exacerbates the situation. There is hope, however, for a possible squad debut by winter signing Albert Grönbaek. The Danish attacking all-rounder was signed from Stade Rennes with high hopes, but due to injury, he has yet to play a single match in an HSV shirt.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.