Grimaldo: 'I want to be a leader'

Alejandro, what are your first impressions of the club and the surroundings?

Grimaldo: I'm very happy to finally be here. I've been able to get to know everybody in the past few days and I’ve had a great reception. Up to now, I get on very well with Gustavo Puerta above all as he also speaks Spanish. But the Spanish-speaking colleagues amongst the staff have made it easy for me to settle in. Now I’ll use the preseason to get used to everything – both on and off the pitch. Over time, I also want to improve my English and learn German of course (he laughs).

You played for Benfica for the past few years, also a very attractive club. What persuaded you to join Bayer 04?

Grimaldo: The club and Xabi (head coach Xabi Alonso, ed.) himself showed great interest me for a long while and they took time out for a lot of talks with me. They made me feel positive and conveyed great confidence. I felt the positive energy from Xabi in the first few days I was here. The energy, he used to have on the pitch, is now transmitted to us. He also has a clear approach to football. He really is a top coach.

You scored an impressive 27 goals in your time in Lisbon as a left-back. What are your plans and targets for the new season?

Grimaldo: I think I can make the difference up front and at the back – with assists and with goals. Also I want to be a leader. That's a role I've always had in my previous teams. I'd like to help my team step up in quality. At the end of the day, I'll always try my best to implement what the coach asks and expects of me – regardless of my position.

The new Bayer 04 home shirt for the new season has come out this week. How do you like it?

Grimaldo: I think it's really great. The significance of the cross on the chest has been explained to me. I think they've done really well with the background and the connection of the club to the fans and the city

​Get the new home shirt now: HERE from the online shop.