How Bayer Leverkusen May Have Hurt Benfica’s Title hopes | OneFootball

On Monday, May 15th, Bayer Leverkusen officially announced the signing of Benfica star Alex Grimaldo (27). The Spanish left-back will join the Bundesliga club on a free transfer this summer, with his contract set to run until 2027.

Grimaldo, who has spent the last seven years playing under the lights of Benfica’s Estádio da Luz, has been a crucial part of the Lisbon club’s title pursuit this season. However, Leverkusen’s announcement of the player’s signing comes at an odd time as Benfica are still set to play two crucial league games this season before they can potentially be crowned champions.

Bayer Leverkusen officially announced the free-transfer of Alex Grimaldo on Monday, May 15th, just days before their Europa League semi-final clash against José Mourinho’s AS Roma

Portuguese newspaper Record reports that the decision to announce the signing at this moment has caused significant discomfort within Benfica’s hierarchy, angering the board and raising strong concerns about potential turmoil in the dressing room at this crucial time.

Despite these worries, Grimaldo is still set to feature in Benfica’s must-win clash with city rivals Sporting CP this Sunday, May 21st. A win is necessary for the ‘Encarnados’ as it would guarantee the club their first Portuguese League title since 2019.

Andrew Abrantes | Get Football