AS: Grimaldo reaches the peak of his career and brings "happy troubles" to Spain s selection

"AS" published an article that Leverkusen full-back Grimaldo is performing well now, causing "happy troubles" to Spanish coach De La Fuente.

Grimaldo's current form is impeccable. This full-back, who has been the main force of Leverkusen in the post-Alonso era, is causing problems for De La Fuente in selecting the 2026 World Cup lineup. After missing the first game, he made a strong return against Bulgaria. Not only did he provide an assist, but he also performed a wonderful and solid defensive performance. Spain is rich in talent at the full-back position, and Grimaldo is determined to make it to the World Cup stage.

So far, Grimaldo has proven himself entirely based on his strength. Not only is he the most prolific left-back in the five major leagues (representing Leverkusen with 4 goals and 2 assists in 9 games), his competitive status is also at its peak. He is not only a defense guarantee, but also the best balanced player in the Bundesliga. He has a 72% confrontation winning rate, an average of 5 regains of the ball per game, a 21% passing accuracy, an 86% passing success rate and a 45% passing success rate. The data speaks for itself.

But Grimaldo has always remained humble. Although Cucurella is the theoretical first choice, he still needs to compete with Balde and A Fee for the bench seat to prevent Cucurella's status from fluctuating.

Grimaldo said: "Cucurella has performed very well recently, and I am always ready to contribute, whether on or off the field. When my moment comes, I will do my best to help the team. When the opportunity comes, I also enjoy it."

Now, Grimaldo is already on De La Fuente's inspection list, and he is eager to win his position through performance. The relationship between the two is currently in the honeymoon phase, and their mutual respect and appreciation continues unabated.

Grimaldo said: "There are many Spanish players who deserve to be in the national team, but it is difficult to be selected. De la Fuente has built an incredible team, we continue to achieve good results, and now we must maintain this momentum. Whoever is selected can win. Ren, we are all working in the same direction, that is the World Cup, and we must arrive in the best condition."

The 30-year-old Grimaldo is now at the peak of his career. Atletico Madrid, Barcelona, and Real Madrid have all considered introducing him in the summer window. This is no accident.