Alejandro Grimaldo
ATM
Withdraws with thigh injury
Grimaldo has withdrawn from the Spain squad after experiencing discomfort in his left thigh during the warmup before the 4-1 win over Croatia, according to the Spanish Football Federation.
Analysis: Grimaldo was initially named among the substitutes against Croatia but was unable to feature after feeling discomfort in his left quadriceps during the warmup. Subsequent tests prompted Spain to release the left-back from the squad as a precaution, though the federation did not provide a timetable for his recovery. Fran Garcia has been called up in his place, while Grimaldo will return to Atletico Madrid for further management of the issue.
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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