Alejandro Grimaldo
B04
Returns to Atletico training
Grimaldo returned to training with new club Atletico Madrid following his World Cup campaign with Spain, the club posted.
Analysis: Grimaldo did not play a single minute at the World Cup, remaining behind Marc Cucurella in Spain's pecking order, but now heads into his first season with Atletico Madrid carrying a reputation as one of the most productive attacking full backs in Europe and a reliable set piece taker, having racked up 27 goals and 66 assists across 303 appearances at Benfica before adding 30 goals and 45 assists in 145 games at Bayer Leverkusen. It remains to be seen how head coach Diego Simeone will look to unlock his attacking potential within a historically defensive setup, but Grimaldo looks set to be a genuine attacking weapon and possible set piece taker, and he is expected to walk into the side as first choice left back, especially with Matteo Ruggeri closing in on a move.
Signs for Atletico until 2030
Grimaldo has joined Atletico Madrid from Bayer Leverkusen on a contract until June 2030, the club announced.
Analysis: Grimaldo made 145 appearances for Leverkusen since joining in 2023, scoring 30 goals and providing 45 assists, playing a key role in the club's historic Bundesliga and DFB Pokal double in 2023/24 as well as their UEFA Europa League runner-up finish and German Super Cup triumph the following season. Grimaldo previously spent seven and a half seasons at Benfica after progressing through Barcelona's academy, making 303 appearances and winning four league titles along with three Portuguese Super Cups, a domestic cup and a league cup. The versatile defender, who can also operate as a wingback, interior midfielder or attacking midfielder, won Euro 2024 with Spain and is currently representing his country at the World Cup, where he hopes to add another major international title to his collection.
Inefficient in service
Grimaldo recorded three shots (one on goal), 14 crosses (two accurate) and six corners in Saturday's 1-1 draw versus Hamburger SV.
Analysis: Grimaldo had a good stretch late in the season but only logged one assist in his last six matches of what was an otherwise successful campaign. He'll be an important part of Leverkusen's plans next season in both the Bundesliga and Europa League, but he'll need to be more efficient with his service in order to bump up his assist total from eight in the 2025-26 season.
Sets up late insurance goal
Grimaldo had an assist while taking two off target shots, crossing five times (one accurate), creating six chances, making three interceptions and five tackles (winning two) during Saturday's 4-1 win over RB Leipzig.
Analysis: Grimaldo set up Patrik Schick in the 89th minute while leading Leverkusen in crosses, chances created, interceptions and tackles during the win. The assist was the first since March 21st for Grimaldo as he's combined for 10 shots, 12 chances created and 22 crosses over his last three starts.
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