Overview
- The 30-year-old left back visits Estádio da Luz to face his former club in Wednesday's group match.
- Leverkusen sit on two points from three games after a 2–7 loss to PSG, while Benfica have zero from three, increasing the pressure to keep qualification hopes alive.
- Captain Robert Andrich begins a two-match suspension following his red card against PSG, and Grimaldo is expected to wear the armband in Lisbon according to local reports.
- Sporting director Simon Rolfes hailed Grimaldo as an exemplary professional and key reference point for younger teammates.
- Coach Kasper Hjulmand said medical staff signaled an "orange" caution that led to Grimaldo's recent rest, and attacker Malik Tillman has returned to training and will travel.