Alejandro Grimaldo has left Bayer Leverkusen to join Atletico Madrid with immediate effect. It is a clean break from a spell that produced 30 goals in 145 competitive appearances, and 20 goals in 94 Bundesliga games, from a player who became far more than a useful left-back.

Grimaldo's Leverkusen record

Grimaldo arrived in July 2023 from Benfica and fit into one of the most productive periods in Leverkusen's history. He helped them go unbeaten in his maiden season as they completed a Bundesliga and DFB Cup double, and Simon Rolfes described him as a key part of that era while praising his free kicks as iconic.

The goal return is the part that jumps out. Thirty goals across 145 competitive matches is an eye-catching total for a defender, and the Bundesliga figure is strong on its own. He scored 20 times in 94 league appearances, which explains why this exit feels bigger than a standard squad reshuffle.

Grimaldo said: "Bayer 04 and its fans have enriched my life right up until this summer, and I am very grateful for everything this club has given me. But now I'm fulfilling my lifelong dream of competing for trophies and titles for the first time in my home country with a top-tier team. Adiós, Bayer 04 – see you again!"

Atletico get a proven attacking full-back

Rolfes put the move in blunt terms: "Together with Alejandro Grimaldo, we experienced the most breathtaking era in Bayer 04's history, and he was undeniably a key part of our shared success. His playing style left a lasting mark on our Werkself, and his free kicks were iconic – for that, we owe him our thanks. We now bid Grima farewell with our best wishes for his time in La Liga."

Atletico Madrid finished fourth in La Liga, while Leverkusen finished sixth in the Bundesliga. That frames the transfer as a move from one competitive environment to another, but also as the loss of one of Leverkusen's most productive attacking defenders.

Grimaldo's final five-match run included a 9.0 rating against RB Leipzig and a 6.6 against Hamburger SV, a reminder that his level could still swing sharply in a short spell. The broader picture is steadier, though. Leverkusen have lost a player who delivered end product from the left side and played a clear part in their best modern run.

Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 1 outlet. How we work →