Sometimes, the decisions that hurt the most don't affect the present, but rather stir the roots of the past. One of the talents that emerged from the Barça youth academy, now in full maturity, has chosen to move away for good. He won't head to just any destination.
Alejandro Grimaldo has decided to return to Spain, but not to Camp Nou. His choice is already interpreted as a sporting betrayal. The club that trained him is ruled out and the great rival takes the lead.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
A pure product of La Masia
Grimaldo arrived at La Masia at just 12 years old. He was captain in the lower categories and a reference in Barça B. He played more than 90 matches in the blue and garnet jersey between 2011 and 2016.
However, he never debuted with the first team. His departure was quiet, but today many regret it. Because what came after was pure growth.
Bayer Leverkusen has made history this season under Xabi Alonso's orders. Undefeated Bundesliga champions, European finalists, and one of Europe's revelations. Grimaldo has been a protagonist in that success.
The full-back has excelled for his versatility. He combines speed, technique, good reading, and a left foot that constantly generates danger. He scores, assists, and leads from the left flank.
Grimaldo | @grimaldo35
An interview that changed everything
In a recent television appearance, Grimaldo spoke about his future. He declared his desire to return to Spain. He avoided any reference to FC Barcelona.
When asked about Real Madrid, he replied naturally: "It's an honor to be associated with a club like that". He was direct, without ambiguities.
Xabi Alonso needs it now | en.carpetasfcb.com
There were no nuances, no nostalgia, not even a slight nod to his Barça past. Grimaldo didn't mention Barça as a possibility. Not even out of courtesy or memory.
The city of Barcelona received the response like a cold shower. Even more so in the midst of squad planning. And with Hansi Flick looking for full-backs with Barça DNA.
Flick is left without one of his favorites
For Hansi Flick, this move represents a clear setback. The coach wanted to strengthen the left-back position with homegrown profiles. Grimaldo was ideal: mature, versatile, and with roots in the Barça style.
That option has disappeared. Not for economic reasons, but due to the player's personal decision. That hurts more.
Flick | @FCBarcelona
Grimaldo symbolizes a generation that never managed to consolidate in the first team. He was a solid promise, but he didn't have the space that others did. His departure was a missed opportunity that the club still carries.
Today, his profile is highly valued in the market. He is an international with Spain, an undisputed starter in a champion club. A priority target for several giants.
Destination: Bernabéu
Conversations with Real Madrid are advancing. His profile is liked at the white house and the operation is viable. Moreover, the player has been receptive from the first contact.
For Barça fans, it will be difficult to accept. A former La Masia player with a Barça past playing in Chamartín hurts more than usual. Grimaldo has already chosen.
Real Madrid | @realmadrid
Alejandro Grimaldo has made a personal and professional decision. Barça, this time, is not in his plans. The club that trained him will have to see him succeed, perhaps, in the stadium of their greatest adversary.
Meanwhile in Madrid, they celebrate a strategic operation, at Camp Nou they relive an old mistake. One that could be repeated if the treasures of La Masia are not better cared for.
