Alejandro Grimaldo, known for his crucial role at Bayer 04 Leverkusen, has openly expressed a desire to return to Spain as he contemplates his future. The 29-year-old left-back, who joined Leverkusen on a free transfer from Benfica in 2023, aims for a "mid- or short-term" return to his homeland, as he seeks to experience life and play in Spain again.
Grimaldo's journey in football has been remarkable. After leaving FC Barcelona in 2016, where he struggled to secure a spot in the first team, he thrived in Portugal before making his way to Germany. Under the guidance of Bayer's head coach Xabi Alonso, Grimaldo has developed into one of the top left-backs in the world, helping the team achieve its first-ever championship in 2024. Beyond club success, he also lifted the European Championship trophy with Spain's national team last year.
In a recent interview with El Periódico de España, Grimaldo stated, "This is a goal I have. I have it very clear in my mind, and the club knows it. I want to return to Spain in the mid- or short-term and experience living there because, after all, it's my country. I want to play there and enjoy this experience." His aspirations include a potential return to FC Barcelona, where he grew up, fostering a long-term dream to don their colors.
As a key player for Bayer, he has significantly contributed to the team's success and is noted for his ability to score and assist. Over his time at Bayer, Grimaldo has recorded 16 goals and 31 assists in 90 appearances. This stellar performance has led to a meteoric rise in his market value, going up from €25 million to his current estimate of €40 million.
However, recent reports suggest interest from Real Madrid as well, which adds another layer of complexity to his situation. When asked about this potential link, Grimaldo adopted a diplomatic stance: "This is something I don't want to get into, as football is a very complicated game, and you never know what could happen. But it's clear, as I have said, that I grew up in Barça. If the fierce rivals, Atlético and Real, indeed come knocking, I might not completely shy away from their overtures."
Despite his open ambitions, Grimaldo emphasized his contentment at Bayer Leverkusen, where he has a contract valid until June 2027. "I feel very good here," he declared while discussing the club's current position in the Bundesliga and Champions League, indicating that the team is in a good place as they chase titles this season.
With Bayer 04 still in contention for both league and cup honors, Grimaldo is focused on delivering more excellent performances alongside his teammates. As the season nears its conclusion, the club aims to challenge Bayern Munich for the title, standing just six points behind the leaders. Grimaldo remarked on last season's experience, noting, "It's a little different than last year, where we nearly won every match, which isn't normal. I think we're having an excellent year; we are in the semifinals of the cup and had a great group phase in the Champions League, only losing to Bayern, who are one of the favorites in that competition."
While Grimaldo's ambitions for a return to Spain grow clearer, his immediate focus remains on Bayer 04 Leverkusen and the opportunity they present. He understands the complexities and demands of modern football transfers but does not shy away from expressing his desire to eventually return home, where his football journey began.
