Valentín Mariano José Castellanos Giménez

Valentín Castellanos did not develop in the traditional Argentine youth systems; instead, he received his formal football education at the Universidad de Chile academy before turning professional.

Taty Castellanos made his professional debut for Universidad de Chile in 2017 but soon moved to Montevideo City Torque in Uruguay, a club within the City Football Group. His impressive performances there earned him a transfer to New York City FC in Major League Soccer in 2018. In New York, he blossomed into an absolute superstar, winning the 2021 MLS Golden Boot and leading the franchise to its first-ever MLS Cup championship.

Seeking to prove himself in Europe, he was loaned to Girona in Spain's La Liga for the 2022-2023 season. He famously scored four goals in a single match against Real Madrid, a historic achievement that instantly made him a globally recognized striker. In July 2023, he secured a permanent transfer to SS Lazio in Italy's Serie A, where he continued his goal-scoring exploits and gained vital experience in the UEFA Champions League.

During his time in Rome, Castellanos became a reliable and hardworking focal point for the Lazio attack. His energetic displays and crucial goals made him a fan favorite at the Stadio Olimpico. His consistent performances in Italy eventually attracted the attention of Premier League clubs seeking a dynamic forward.

In January 2026, Castellanos signed with West Ham United in a major winter transfer window deal. He quickly adapted to the intense physicality and speed of English football, contributing important goals during the second half of the 2025-2026 season. His relentless pressing style perfectly suited the tactical demands of the Premier League.

By May 2026, Taty is a key attacking asset for West Ham United, making regular appearances and scoring crucial goals against top English opposition. He has also earned call-ups to the Argentina national team, rewarding his highly unconventional but immensely successful career path. He is widely considered one of the hardest-working strikers in Europe.

Valentín Castellanos was born and raised in Mendoza, a city in the western region of Argentina known for its wine production. He comes from a hardworking family and often speaks about the immense sacrifices required to leave his home country at a young age to pursue a football career in Chile.

He maintains a relatively private personal life but frequently shares images of his travels and off-field activities with his followers. He is known to be very close with his family and often returns to Mendoza during the European summer break. He has seamlessly adapted to living in various major cities, including New York, Rome, and now London.

Off the pitch, Taty enjoys fashion and exploring the cultural offerings of the cities he lives in. He is heavily respected by his teammates for his incredible work ethic in training and his positive attitude in the dressing room. He is a passionate follower of Argentine domestic football, despite never having played professionally in his home country.