Atlético Madrid Signs Alejandro Grimaldo from Bayer Leverkusen

Atlético Madrid has secured the signing of Spanish left-back Alejandro Grimaldo, who joins from Bayer Leverkusen on a contract running until 2030. The versatile defender is currently part of the Spanish squad participating in the 2026 World Cup.

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A versatile left-back who can also play as a wing-back, midfielder, and even attacking midfielder, he stands out for his technique and vision of play, allowing him to contribute to attacks by scoring and assisting with ease.

Grimaldo, 30, was a pivotal figure in Bayer Leverkusen's extraordinary 2024 season, where the German club achieved an undefeated run, clinching the Bundesliga title and the German Cup, while also reaching the Europa League final under coach Xabi Alonso. He departs Germany after 145 appearances, having scored 30 goals and provided 45 assists.

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Along with Alejandro Grimaldo, we have experienced the most extraordinary period in Bayer's history, and there is no doubt that he was a fundamental piece of our successes.

Bayer Leverkusen's managing director, Simon Rolfes, acknowledged Grimaldo's crucial role in the club's "most extraordinary period in history." Grimaldo, who has earned 14 caps for Spain and won the 2024 European Championship, is among the 26 players selected for the 2026 World Cup. Although he did not feature in the group stage matches, he is poised for more involvement in the knockout rounds following injuries to teammates.

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It's a position I know very well, this year I have scored 14 goals and made 13 assists, I know what I have to do in the opponent's half and I can help in that position, the coach knows it.

Speaking from Spain's training camp, Grimaldo indicated his willingness to play in a more advanced role. "It's a position I know very well," he stated, referencing his 14 goals and 13 assists in the past season. "I know what I need to do in the opponent's half and I can help in that position; the coach knows it." He also confirmed discussions with his future coach at Atlético Madrid, Diego Simeone, who wished him luck for the World Cup.

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He congratulated me on joining the squad, he wished me luck in this World Cup, because now the most important thing is to focus on the World Cup and win the next match.