Births on February 16

Diego Capel

Born on February 16, 1988

Diego Capel, Spanish footballer

Diego Ángel Capel Trinidad: A Career Defined by Pace, Trophies, and European Journeys

Diego Ángel Capel Trinidad, (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈdjeɣo kaˈpel]), born on 16 February 1988, is a distinguished Spanish professional footballer primarily known for his explosive speed and technical prowess as a left winger. Currently, Capel brings his extensive experience to Super League Greece 2 club Irodotos, continuing a career that has spanned multiple top-flight European leagues.

Early Promise and Triumphant Years at Sevilla FC

Capel's professional journey began remarkably early, making his senior debut for Spanish giants Sevilla FC at the tender age of 16. This precocious start foreshadowed a significant impact on the club. Over seven demanding La Liga seasons, from 2004 to 2011, he became an integral part of one of Sevilla's most successful eras. He accumulated 173 competitive appearances for the Andalusian side, netting 12 goals, often delivering crucial assists with his incisive crosses and direct dribbling.

During his tenure at Sevilla, Capel was instrumental in the club securing four major trophies, a testament to his contribution during a golden period. These included back-to-back UEFA Cups (now known as the UEFA Europa League) in the 2005–06 and 2006–07 seasons, a feat that cemented Sevilla’s reputation on the European stage. His trophy cabinet with Sevilla also boasted a Copa del Rey triumph in the 2006–07 season and the Supercopa de España in 2007, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the club's history.

Move to Portugal and Sporting CP Success

In 2011, Diego Capel embarked on a new chapter, signing with Portuguese powerhouse Sporting CP. His move to Lisbon marked another productive phase in his career, where he continued to showcase his abilities on the left flank. Over his spell with Sporting, Capel featured in an impressive 142 games across all competitions. A significant highlight of his time in Portugal was winning the prestigious 2014–15 Taça de Portugal, Portugal's primary domestic cup competition, adding another major honour to his growing list of achievements.

A Nomadic European Adventure

Following his successful period with Sporting CP, Capel's career took on a more "nomadic" trajectory, seeing him ply his trade across various European leagues. This journey allowed him to experience different football cultures and styles of play. His subsequent clubs included Italian Serie A side Genoa (2015–2016), Belgian champions Anderlecht (2016–2017), Spanish Segunda División club Extremadura UD (2018–2020), and Maltese Premier League outfit Birkirkara FC (2020–2021), before eventually joining Irodotos in Greece. Each move added unique experiences to a career defined by adaptability and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

International Representation for Spain

Diego Capel's talent was recognized early at the international level, earning him a remarkable 60 caps across all of Spain's youth categories. He consistently represented his country, notably featuring for the Spain Under-21 national team in two UEFA European Under-21 Championships. His participation included the 2011 tournament, where he was part of the triumphant Spanish squad that lifted the trophy, further highlighting his quality and impact. His consistent performances at youth level ultimately led to his full international debut for the senior Spain national team in 2008, a testament to his emergence as a top-tier Spanish talent.

Frequently Asked Questions about Diego Capel

What is Diego Capel's current football club?: Diego Capel currently plays as a left winger for Super League Greece 2 club Irodotos.
Which major trophies did Diego Capel win with Sevilla FC?: With Sevilla FC, Diego Capel won two UEFA Cups (2005–06, 2006–07), one Copa del Rey (2006–07), and one Supercopa de España (2007).
When did Diego Capel make his senior debut?: Diego Capel made his senior debut with Sevilla FC at the age of 16, during the 2004–05 season.
What is Diego Capel's primary playing position?: Diego Capel's primary playing position is a left winger, known for his speed and dribbling ability.
Did Diego Capel represent the Spanish national team?: Yes, Diego Capel earned 60 caps for Spain across all youth categories, including winning the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in 2011, and made his full senior international debut in 2008.

References

Diego Capel

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Events on 1988

14 Apr

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29 May

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The U.S. President Ronald Reagan begins his first visit to the Soviet Union when he arrives in Moscow for a superpower summit with the Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev.
15 Nov

State of Palestine
Israeli-Palestinian conflict: An independent State of Palestine is proclaimed by the Palestinian National Council.
16 Nov

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19 Nov

Slobodan Milošević
Serbian communist representative and future Serbian and Yugoslav president Slobodan Milošević publicly declares that Serbia is under attack from Albanian separatists in Kosovo as well as internal treachery within Yugoslavia and a foreign conspiracy to destroy Serbia and Yugoslavia.