In this analysis, we will focus on who Pablo Barrios is, the evolution of his game, and why there is already intense speculation that he is wanted by other major clubs. The talented product of Atlético Madrid's academy is currently the only Spanish national team player from Atlético.

Pablo Barrios Rivas, born on June 15, 2003, is a talented Spanish footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Atlético Madrid in La Liga and represents the Spain national team.

Barrios started his youth career at Real Madrid before switching to city rivals Atlético Madrid in 2017. He quickly progressed, becoming a key player for Atlético's under-19 team during the 2021–22 season, a campaign that saw the team reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Youth League for the first time in the club's history.

On March 3, 2022, Barrios signed his first professional contract with Atlético Madrid, committing to the club until 2025. During the 2022–23 season, he began with the reserve team but was soon promoted to the first team. He made his La Liga debut on October 29, 2022, coming on as a substitute for Geoffrey Kondogbia in a 3–2 away loss against Cádiz CF.

Barrios scored his first goal for Atlético Madrid on December 22, 2022, contributing to a 3–1 away win against CD Arenteiro in the Copa del Rey. A few weeks later, on January 4, 2023, he scored his first professional goal during a 2–0 victory against Real Oviedo, also in the national cup.

On January 25, 2023, Barrios extended his contract until 2028 and was officially promoted to the first team, receiving the number 24 jersey. By the 2024–25 season, following Saúl Ñíguez's departure, Barrios inherited the iconic number 8 jersey. He cemented his place as a key player under Diego Simeone, becoming a regular starter and one of the most exciting young talents in the squad.

Pablo Barrios is the type of midfielder that Diego Simeone values greatly, as do other renowned coaches like Jürgen Klopp. Barrios excels in both defensive and offensive phases of the game. His work rate and dedication make him a presence across the pitch. Simeone often uses him as a box-to-box midfielder with slightly more offensive responsibilities, depending on his midfield partners.

When Gallagher is on the pitch, his boundless energy covers many defensive duties, giving Barrios more freedom in attack. However, when paired with de Paul and Koke, Barrios often has to take on more defensive responsibilities, as de Paul’s attacking skills are remarkable. If we were to look back 10 years, Simeone might have used Barrios as a winger, similar to a younger Saúl Ñíguez or Koke, thanks to his pace.

Let’s start with his energy. The young midfielder is everywhere he needs to be and has a high stamina level, as demonstrated in matches such as the counter-attack against Girona in the 95th minute, securing a 3–0 win. While his statistics for goals and assists are not exceptional, Barrios adds something unique to the team: his ability to shoot from distance. The young midfielder is not afraid to take shots when the opportunity arises and shows impressive confidence.

If he is given more offensive responsibilities in the coming seasons, his goal and assist numbers will surely improve. Even de Paul recently praised Barrios’s game and his importance to the team. This importance was evident during the team’s three losses this season (against Benfica, LOSC, and Betis), all of which occurred when Barrios was unavailable due to a muscle injury. Notably, without him in the midfield against Benfica, the team struggled to match the opponent's tempo.

Another asset in his game is his ability to maintain discipline, avoiding unnecessary cards despite his aggressive role in midfield—a commendable quality for a young player in his position.

Football is often a business. Considering the club’s summer investments, selling players might be necessary next summer, depending on the team’s revenue this season. Barrios has already caught the attention of major European clubs, with Chelsea reportedly showing serious interest, valuing him at around €50 million.

Given Atlético’s ability to secure his contract until 2028, a transfer fee below €70–75 million would be disappointing. Personally, I hope Barrios chooses to have a long-term career at Atlético, as players with his heart and commitment are embedded in the club’s DNA. Time will tell how he reacts to interest from other clubs and leagues.