Image of Simeone in a montage with Atlético de Madrid players

Simeone, a new and unexpected world star and some blunt words: 'This could...'

The Argentine coach has found a star at zero cost

Atlético de Madrid have started the 2024/25 season with a surprising revelation: Pablo Barrios. At just 21 years old, this young midfielder has become a key player for Diego Simeone. His performance has left everyone astonished, showing that his rise is not the result of chance, but of constant work and the clinical eye of the Argentine coach.

Football player in Atlético de Madrid uniform in action during a match.
Neighborhoods in a game | Google Imagenes

Pablo Barrios has started three of the four games played by Atlético de Madrid so far. His presence in midfield has been decisive. Since his debut this season, Barrios has shown that he has the quality necessary to stand out in a team as competitive as Atlético. His ability to recover balls, his vision of the game and his physicality have made him an essential player for Simeone.

Simeone's confidence and Barrios' response

Diego Simeone, known for his demanding nature, is quick to heap praise on those who truly deserve it. In a recent statement, the Argentine coach made it clear that he had faith in Barrios' talent. "We understood that this could happen," said Simeone, referring to the immediate impact the youngster has had on the team. "We are very happy that he won the Olympics as a defensive pivot, even though his natural position is as an inside midfielder," added the coach.

Football player in Atletico Madrid uniform smiling on the field.
Barrios against Villarreal | X: @Atleti

These words reflect the satisfaction with Barrios' performance, but also the high expectations that come with maintaining this level. Barrios has known how to respond to the trust placed in him, taking advantage of every minute on the field to demonstrate his worth. His intelligence in positioning and his ability to generate offensive play have been fundamental for Atlético.

A promising future at Atlético de Madrid

The promotion of Pablo Barrios is one of the best pieces of news for Atlético de Madrid in a long time. In a team known for its defensive solidity and competitive ability, the emergence of a young talent like Barrios is a breath of fresh air. His footballing maturity contrasts with his youth, and his projection places him as a pillar in the future of Atlético.

Three athletes in Spanish uniforms pose with their gold medals in a stadium, two of them biting their medals.
Barrios with his Olympic gold | Google Imagenes

Barrios' journey has only just begun, but his emergence in the first team is already giving a lot to talk about. Simeone has made it clear that he trusts him, but also that the competition is fierce and there is no room for relaxation. If Pablo Barrios continues along this path, he could become one of the key players for Atlético de Madrid in the very near future.