Atletico Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios has discussed the fundamental role football played for him after the loss of his mother. In an interview published this Monday by MSN Deportes, the 23-year-old player shared how the sport served as personal support during a difficult time.
Barrios, a product of the club's academy, lost his mother when he was a teenager. "Without football I don't know what would have become of me after losing my mother," the footballer stated. "It helped me a lot to get through it." These comments offer an intimate look at the motivation behind his rise to the first team.
How did this event influence his career?
The need to take refuge in the game drove Barrios's dedication. His progression from the youth ranks to Atletico Madrid's main squad was notably fast. He debuted with the first team in the 2022-23 season and has since established himself as an option in midfield. His current contract, which you can check on our squad page, ties him to the club until June 2029.
This long-term commitment reflects the confidence the club places in him. In the current season, Barrios has played several league matches, showing his versatility to operate as an interior midfielder or in deeper positions. His development is closely monitored by the coaching staff, who value his work rate and technical quality.
What is his current situation in the team?
Pablo Barrios is competing for a place in a midfield packed with talent. Players like Koke, Rodrigo De Paul, and Marcos Llorente are regular starters, but rotations and a congested fixture list provide opportunities. The next phase of the season, with Champions League matches and the fight for top spots in the standings, will require contributions from the entire squad.
His profile as a young player, with good ball distribution and an ability to arrive in the box, is valued. The team needs depth to handle all competitions, and Barrios represents an important piece for the present and future. His evolution can be tracked through his official stats.
What data highlights his career path?
Barrios has been accumulating minutes and experience at the top level. Below are some key data points from his first-team career at Atletico Madrid to date:
| Season | League Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 12 | 1 | 0 |
| 2023-24 | 24 | 2 | 3 |
| 2024-25 | 28 | 3 | 2 |
| 2025-26* | 5 | 0 | 1 |
*2025-26 season in progress. LaLiga data.
These figures show a steady progression in terms of involvement. His first LaLiga goal was scored against Elche in January 2023. Each season he has increased his number of appearances, demonstrating his adaptation to the highest level.
What does this mean for his future?
Barrios's personal revelations underline the maturity with which he approaches his career. Overcoming such a major adversity at a young age has forged his character, both on and off the pitch. For Atletico Madrid, having a player with this mentality and growth potential is an asset. The club trusts he will continue to develop and provide quality in the coming years, fulfilling the long-term contract he signed. His story is a reminder of the human side behind sporting results.
