Pablo Barrios has become one of Atlético de Madrid's most promising players for the 2024-2025 season. At just 21 years old, he has inherited the number 8 jersey, a number that carries a lot of weight in the club's history. Simeone and the board have made it clear that they trust the youth player to occupy a key place in the team.
The meaning of number 8
The number 8 is a number that has been worn by figures such as Luis Aragonés, Antoine Griezmann and Saúl Ñíguez at Atlético de Madrid. Barrios now takes over, which represents a great responsibility for the young midfielder. This decision is not a coincidence, it reflects the respect and expectations that the club has for his future.
The confidence in Barrios is not just symbolic. His performance during the Olympic Games has been exceptional, which has led Simeone to consider him as a fundamental piece in his scheme. In a team that seeks to renew itself and remain competitive, Pablo Barrios is a clear bet for the present and future.
The road to ownership
Atlético de Madrid are preparing for their league opener against Villarreal, and everything indicates that Barrios will start in this important match. During training, Simeone has lined him up in the double pivot alongside Koke. This tactical positioning reflects Cholo's confidence in Barrios' ability to manage the tempo of the match.
The departure of Saul
The departure of Saúl Ñíguez left a gap in Atlético Madrid's midfield, but Barrios is showing that he has what it takes to fill that space. His skill on the ball, his vision of the game and his ability to get into the opposition's area make him a very complete player. Simeone has praised him on several occasions, highlighting his maturity despite his youth.
Furthermore, the fact that he has inherited the number 8 shows the club's intention to make him a protagonist in the coming years. He is not just a player for the present, but a bet for the future of the red-and-white team. With Barrios on the pitch, Atlético ensures that its midfield will have the balance and creativity necessary to compete at the highest level.
In the upcoming match against Villarreal , Barrios will have the opportunity to show why Simeone has so much faith in him. The young midfielder is ready to take responsibility and prove that Atlético de Madrid's future is in good hands. El Cholo has placed in him the same trust that he previously had in Saúl, and now it is time for Barrios to establish himself as one of the pillars of the team.