Grimaldo on free-kick technique: 'Working on it every day for 15 years'

Alejandro Grimaldo on…

…his impressions of the derby against FC Köln: The atmosphere was incredible! Above all when we ran onto the pitch. It was comparable to the derby games in Lisbon I experienced between Benfica and Sporting. The atmosphere at German grounds is generally exceptional. In terms of football, we were clearly superior to Köln on the day and deservedly won the game.

…the successful start to the season: I was certain before the first game that we have a very good squad. We are confirming that assessment week by week and partly in a very impressive way. With the new signings, the management of the club have implemented the promise to further strengthen the squad they made to me during contract talks in May. Of course, everything is going brilliantly for us at the moment. But it's still very early in the season. We have to continue working hard and take it step-by-step.

…his ability at direct free kicks: I now have a certain routine and experience taking them and I've been working on my technique every day for 15 years. I often used to practice free kicks at Benfica with Luca (Waldschmidt, now at FC Köln, ed.), I used to learn technique and execution above all from Gareth Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo and Juninho. The most important thing for me is being able to help the team with these goals – the one against Bayern was very important for us and we played much better after that.

…his interpretation of alternating in build-up play between the left wing and central midfield: At the end of the day, it's obviously the idea of the coach and I do what the coach asks me to. But that role suits me, I'm happy to support the build-up and I like getting up front to join in.

…head coach Xabi Alonso: I've got a very good relationship with him not least through the common language. Xabi has the ability to convey the experiences from his long and successful career to us. He makes us all better every day.

…the former Bayer 04 coach Roger Schmidt who he won the Portuguese league title under at Benfica in the summer: He spoke very positively about Leverkusen before my move and gave me a couple of tips – for example, on the best place to live. He was a great coach and I'm very grateful for our time working together.

…not being called up to the Spain squad: First, I have to say Spain has excellent players. In terms of myself, I would have been very hacked off and disappointed with the decision a few years ago. And now I'm disappointed not to be part of it. But I see it much more as great motivation to work even harder than before.