Spanish football powerhouse Atlético Madrid has been dealt a substantial blow to its squad with the confirmation that midfielder Pablo Barrios will be sidelined for their crucial Champions League encounters against Arsenal.
Barrios made a return to the starting lineup for Atlético’s recent La Liga match against Athletic Club on Saturday, marking his first start in over a month. However, during the game, which Atlético ultimately won 3-2, the 22-year-old midfielder sustained another injury.
He was forced off the field shortly before the hour mark after going down and clutching his hamstring. Initial hopes were that the injury was minor and would only prevent him from participating in the first leg of the tie against Arsenal.
However, reports indicate a more serious situation. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, citing Marca, Pablo Barrios will miss both legs of the Champions League tie against Arsenal due to a muscle injury. The report suggests that Barrios’s aim will be to recover in time for a potential Champions League final, should Atlético progress that far.
