Alejandro Grimaldo has completed a permanent transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Atlético Madrid, the German club confirmed on Tuesday. The Spain international returns to his homeland after three seasons with Leverkusen, where he was a key component of their historic 2023/24 campaign.
Grimaldo departs Leverkusen having contributed significantly to the club’s first ever Bundesliga title and DFB-Pokal triumph. He made 145 appearances for Die Werkself across all competitions, registering 30 goals and 45 assists, becoming a vital attacking threat from left-back. His set-piece ability, in particular, became a hallmark of his game, with several spectacular free-kicks contributing to Leverkusen’s success.
Bayer Leverkusen’s managing director for sport, Simon Rolfes, praised Grimaldo’s impact on the club, stating that his playing style “shaped our Werkself” and that his free kicks were “iconic.” Rolfes thanked Grimaldo for his contributions and wished him well in his future endeavors. Grimaldo himself expressed gratitude to Leverkusen and its fans, describing the achievements of the past season as unforgettable.
Grimaldo cited a long-held ambition to play in La Liga as a motivating factor in his decision to join Atlético Madrid. He expressed his excitement at the prospect of competing for trophies with a top team in his home country. Atlético Madrid will be looking to integrate Grimaldo into their squad as they aim to challenge for domestic and European honours.
The move provides Atlético with a proven performer in a key position, adding experience and attacking impetus to their squad. For Leverkusen, it creates a vacancy that Xabi Alonso will need to fill as they prepare to compete in the Champions League next season.
