Bayer Leverkusen wing-back Alejandro Grimaldo has explained his decision to leave Barcelona.

Grimaldo left Benfica for Bayer last summer, helping them win the Bundesliga title.

He has now discussed the decision to quit Barca for Benfica in the 2016 January transfer window.

"Barça didn't count on me. I had six months left on my contract, and there was an opportunity to extend and move up to the A-squad," he told Esquire magazine.

"After four or five years in Barça B, I felt it was time to take that step, but it didn't happen. I understand the situation of the club, because at that time Jordi Alba was there and it was difficult to step up.

"So I had to make the decision to leave."