Alejandro Grimaldo (28) has impressed at all levels at Bayer 04 Leverkusen so far. Now the left-back, who is not really a left-back, has been rewarded by Spanish national team coach Luis de la Fuente
Five goals, four assists and an average grade of 2.1 from ten Bundesliga games: Rarely has a defender in the Bundesliga made such an impact as Alejandro Grimaldo. Although “defender” doesn’t really fit given the 28-year-old’s role on the pitch, as the attack-minded Grimaldo is so involved in Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s attacking play
The “left-back” still had to wait a while for his first call-up to the Spanish national team. “A few years ago I would probably have been very angry,” he said in October, but this Friday the time has come: Luis de la Fuente called Grimaldo into his 25-man squad for the two international matches in Cyprus (November 16, 6pm) and Georgia. “I’ve waited a long time for this moment and I’m very proud. For me, this nomination is a childhood dream come true,” said the Leverkusen player. “I’ve invested a lot in this moment and worked hard for it over many years. I’m delighted that my daily work is now paying off. Now I want to seize my opportunity. “
Isco is not rewarded – Pedri is also missing
He is the only current Bundesliga professional in the squad, but Dani Carvajal, Joselu and Mikel Merino also have a past in the top German league. Isco also almost landed in the Bundesliga just over a year ago, but his move to Union fell through in spectacular fashion. The midfielder has been playing for Real Betis since the summer and performed so well for the Andalusians that a return to the Seleccion seemed conceivable.
However, De la Fuente decided against nominating the 31-year-old despite a number of injury-related withdrawals. He had to be “often unfair”, he said on Friday. “Many were ready to play, but I also think I’m fair to those who come. I have more players than I can pick. I hope that puts an end to the debate about who comes and who doesn’t,” explained the 62-year-old.
Alex Remiro (Real Sociedad), who replaces the injured goalkeeper Kepa, is one of the players included. Inigo Martinez (Barcelona), Aleix Garcia (Girona) and Rodrigo Riquelme (Atletico) also received surprising invitations. Barcelona’s Pedri is still on the sidelines due to a lack of match practice. “He’s come back after a long injury. We know what he can do. He’s a top-class player and if he keeps playing, all doors are open to him,” said de la Fuente.
