Grimaldo Sets Lofty Ambitions After Atletico Madrid Switch

Alejandro Grimaldo has set himself the target of becoming "the best full-back" in LaLiga, following his move to Atletico Madrid.

The 30-year-old joined Atleti from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported €22m this summer, signing a four-year deal with the LaLiga side. Since his move to Leverkusen in 2023, Grimaldo has been one of the most productive defenders in European football, scoring the most goals among defenders in Europe's top five leagues (30), providing the most assists (41) and creating the most chances (326).

He also played a crucial role in the Werkself's Bundesliga-winning campaign in 2023-24, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists in 33 games.

Ambitious and Ready for the Challenge

With a new test ahead for Grimaldo, the Spaniard is determined to do his best in order to help Atleti win more titles.

"I'm a very ambitious player," Grimaldo said at his official unveiling. "I have very specific goals at club level, which is to win titles, and at the individual level, to be the best full-back in the league."

"I'm going to work for that. If I don't achieve it, I won't be happy."

Grimaldo is no stranger to high expectations, having thrived under pressure during his time in Germany.

"Playing every three days for a Champions League team, the pressure is there. I've always known how to handle it, and that's what's got me to this point," he added.

"I'll know how to handle it, and I'm looking forward to the first match to prove it."

Backing the Squad

Grimaldo also expressed confidence in his new teammates and coaching staff as Atleti prepare for the upcoming campaign.

"We have a great team, great players, a great coach. We are prepared to fight for everything and that is our mentality," he said.

Grimaldo is yet to feature in pre-season for Atleti as he was part of Spain's World Cup-winning squad last month. Atleti face Marseille in their final pre-season friendly on Friday, while their LaLiga campaign begins on August 19 against Malaga.