Pablo Barrios was born in Madrid and came through Atlético Madrid’s academy. He made his first-team debut in 2022 and quickly became a regular under Diego Simeone.
A technically gifted central midfielder, Barrios can receive under pressure, carry the ball forward and play through the lines, while also meeting the defensive demands of Simeone’s system. His emergence gave Atlético a homegrown midfielder to build around as veterans such as Koke aged.
He has represented Spain at youth level.
Playing style
Barrios is a technically gifted midfielder who is comfortable receiving the ball under pressure. He can turn away from opponents, carry the ball forward and play passes through the lines. He is also willing to press and tackle, which is essential in Simeone’s system. His composure and technique suggest a player who could develop into one of the best midfielders in La Liga. He can play as a central midfielder or further forward.
International career
Barrios has represented Spain at youth level and is regarded as one of the country’s most promising midfielders.
Career in numbers
Across 5 seasons of senior club football, beginning in 2022/23, Barrios has played 145 matches and scored 7 goals for Atlético Madrid. His best scoring return came in 2024/25: 3 goals in 44 appearances for Atlético Madrid. So far in 2026/27 he has made 5 appearances for Atlético Madrid. The full season-by-season record is in the Stats section of this profile.